RVU

RV University This Week 03/8/2010

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #55 - March 8, 2010

�I have seen much of the world through the eyes of a soldier, now I want to see much of the country through the eyes of an RVer.�
~ Mark Polk

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

I received lots of email responses to last week's article about state park closures. I must say I was pleased to hear all of the support and ideas offered to help keep state parks open for everyone to enjoy. One email in particular mentioned a site where our voices can be heard on the future of our state parks. Be sure to check out this week's feature article for more information on how we can help save our state parks.

In last week's poll we asked the question, Do you see closing state parks as a way to decrease state budgets? 91% of the respondents answered No and 9% answered Yes.

Until next week, plan your trip, travel safe and enjoy your RV experiences. Remember, getting there is half the fun!
Mark

Let your Voice be Heard on State Parks
Last week I wrote an article about state parks that are being closed because of state budget cuts. I received many e-mails regarding the article, including one that referenced this website ....... Read the article

Wheels of freedom
Cutting Edge Graphics wraps RV in tribute to troops...

RVs a home away from home you bring with you
Flat-screen TVs, outdoor kitchens, sliding glass doors and fireplaces are amenities in nicer homes - and in some of the more than 70 campers at the Central Illinois Recreational Show this weekend at the Peoria Civic Center....

Securing closed state parks poses a challenge
Capturing the moment, before a not-so-picture-perfect future, Ian Jackson wondered how the state plans to secure Picacho Peak State Park when it closes ...

Check out this week's poll: "Is your RV financed?Do you think you owe more than your RV is worth?" To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1:
Awning Fabric
For the most part, awning fabrics come available in 2 types. Acrylic and vinyl.
Acrylic fabric is a woven cloth that lets air circulate through the fabric. This air circulation allows the fabric to dry quickly when it gets wet. Acrylic fabrics are water repellent, but not waterproof. If you have experience tent camping you know that you shouldn�t touch the underside of the tent when it�s wet. Touching the wet fabric allows water to seep through the fabric. The same applies to an acrylic awning fabric.

Vinyl awning fabric is a solid waterproof fabric. Vinyl fabric is very durable and works well for RV applications. Vinyl awning fabrics are mildew resistant, but not necessarily mildew proof. Mildew can form on the dirt and dust that collects on the fabric.

When you open the awning for the first time each year, or if it has been stored for a while, you will need to inspect the awning fabric for any signs of mildew (vinyl fabric), stains or other damage. If the awning fabric is clean, and in good shape, normal cleaning is pretty simple.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2:
Fire Escape Plan
You need to have an emergency escape plan. The National Fire Protection agency requires that RV�s have emergency escape windows. Make sure everybody knows where the escape window is located and how to use it. It�s a good idea to practice using it so you are familiar with how to get out in case of an emergency. You should have an escape plan for the front of the RV and the rear of the RV. Most important, do not risk your personal safety, or the safety of others, attempting to put a fire out. The first step is to get everybody out of the RV or away from the fire safely. Have somebody call 911 for help and let the professionals put it out. Have a plan for everyone to meet at a pre-determined location once they are outside the RV. Account for everyone.

...with Mark
Q. I am doing my "homework" so that when I do buy a coach...it will be a "perfect purchase". What bothers me is that the reports say on the average, every 28 months someone trades in a coach for another one. I have to think the depreciation would kill them. What are your thoughts?

Mark Says: RV's depreciate and depreciation will do a job on you if you trade or sell the unit to soon. Many people purchase the wrong RV the first time around and end up trading within one, two or three years. This is common in this industry. Whether it's too small, too big or the wrong type they end up "upside down'" and it's hard to get out of after that. I think the important thing is that you know for a fact you enjoy RVing and research a great deal on the type and size of RV that will suit your needs. And of course that you buy the unit at the right price too. If you're not absolutely sure whether RVing is for you try renting one first to see what you think.

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2010
This weeks special:

RV Awning Use and Care Ebook
I Plus how to install a window awning in six easy steps.If you have been around RV�s, you have probably heard many horror stories about RV awning mishaps. There was the camper who didn�t lower one end of the awning to allow for water run-off and the weight of the water, during a steady rain, tore the awning fabric from the side of the RV. There was the camper who decided to leave the awning out while they headed to the beach for a couple of hours. When they returned to the campsite they discovered the awning hardware and fabric was on top of the RV, due to a strong gust of wind from a storm that suddenly moved in. There was the camper, which in this case was me, who was driving down the Interstate and the awning tried to unfurl as we were traveling. In my own self defense it was because of a defective awning lock on our new RV at the time. And there was Robin Williams in the movie �RV� who left the campground with the awning still out, in an attempt to make a hasty retreat from his pesky neighbors.
sale price: $8.95 Buy Now

RV Education 101 & RV University went mobile!
Check us out on the go
www.rveducation101.mobi
&
www.rvuniversity.mobi
from your phone!. .....

Share your thoughts & experiences with other RVers and Campers

RV Links:

TailGater, the simple, safe and easy way to transport your propane tanks.
Designed and built by a full-time RV'er to solve the problem of transporting your 20lb or 30lb tanks, whether just down the road to the propane fill station, or on the road. No more bungees, milkcrates, ropes or wires! .....

Need RV service in Colorado Springs?
Around The World RV is your full-service RV Dealer in Colorado Springs with thousands of RV Parts and RV Accessories. Around the World RV is your RV rental source .....

Own a motorhome?
Membership in FMCA brings with it a wealth of benefits and services
� all specially designed to meet the needs of motorhome owners.
The value of these benefits and services far exceeds the cost of the annual dues.
Benefit highlights

A product that Mark personally uses: Camping/RV Battery Chargers- BatteryMINDers� are the new generation of SMART, pulse type "computer-on-a-chip" chargers, that safely charge and maintain all size / type / brands of batteries including starter, deep cycle and sealed types including AGM �dry� made by OPTIMA, ODYSSEY, EXIDE, INTERSTATE, et al. They do all of this without ever overcharging, no matter how long they are left on charge � days-weeks-or even months. Dubbed the chargers with "brains," they are the first to fully-automatically reverse the primary cause of early battery failure known as "sulfation". Sulfated batteries once considered beyond recovery can now be brought back to long-term useful condition. Certain models of BatteryMINDers� can more than double the useful life of new batteries.

16 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

An Introduction to RV's
Drive Your Motorhome Like a Pro
RV Awning Use, Care and Accessories
RV Safety Features, Tips and Tricks
Pop Up 101
Travel Trailer 101
Class A Motor Home 101
Class C Rental / Owner
Winterizing & Storing your RV
EZ RV Add Ons and Must Have RV Products
Trailer Towing, Weights, Hitch Work & Backing
Motorhome Towing
RV Campground Basics
Marks Recommended 10 minute RV Essential Items
Deep Cycle Battery Care & Maintenance for RV's and Boats
RV Care and Maintenance

Money Saving DVD Sets Available

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

The Original Checklists for RVers
Winterizing and Storing your RV
THE RV BOOK now available as an ebook
The Three Primary Systems of an RV
Insider's Guide to Buying an RV
RV Buyers Survival Guide
Trailer Towing, Weights, Hitch Work & Backing
A Collection of RV Tips
Pop-Up Basics 101
Dinghy Towing
Deep Cycle Battery Care and Maintenance
RV Awning Use and Care
RV Safety Features, Tips and Tricks
RV Care and Maintenance
RV Campground Basics

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

Our goal with RV University This Week is to provide you with helpful information to make all of your RV experiences more enjoyable. I left my position as an RV Sales and F&I manager in 2000 to start my own company, RV Education 101. We produce educational videos, DVDs and e-books on how to use and maintain your RV. The reason I left my job was due to my concern about the lack of educational and safety awareness material available to the RV consumer, in other words, you. We are a small company. My wife Dawn left her position in RV sales to help start the company and is our Sales and Marketing Director. We currently have a 35-foot Class A motor home. We have two boys, Tyler 13 and Josh 19, both avid RVers and two dogs, Gracie and Buck. Gracie is the good one. If you would like to learn more about us and RV Education 101 feel free to visit http://www.rveducation101.com

RV University This Week � Copyright 2010 Mark J. Polk, except where indicated otherwise. All rights reserved worldwide. Reprint only with permission from copyright holder(s). All trademarks are property of their respective owners. All contents provided as is. Advertisers are solely responsible for ad content.

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

RV Education 101 Newsletter is an opt-in ezine available by subscription only. We neither use nor endorse the use of spam. Your email address will ONLY be used to distribute this newsletter and will NEVER be sold or given to any other entity!!

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

mark@rveducation101.com

dawn@rveducation101.com

Join FMCA

RV University This Week 03/1/2010

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #54 - March 1, 2010

�Your total RV experience will be enhanced through your RV education.�
~ Mark Polk

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

Something that really bothers me is when I see state officials under-funding and closing state parks for budget reasons. If state officials think there is nothing wrong with closing preserved historical recreation areas I would be deeply concerned about their capability in making other important decisions affecting the citizens of that state. The last thing that should be considered, when reducing a budget, is the land that belongs to the people.

It is our moral obligation to protect and preserve our state and national parks. The reality is, closing parks does not really save a significant amount of money but it does affect the local economy in a negative way. And it deprives the taxpayer from enjoying cost effective camping and recreation on land that should be available to the taxpayer.

I am really concerned for some of the states being affected by park closings and reductions, and I can only hope it never spills over to our national parks. The President's 2011 budget request for National Park Service is 21.6 million lower than the current 2010 fiscal year budget. The National Park Service is already grossly under funded. The first step is always to cut the funding. In reality the Park Service budget is miniscule compared to the federal budget. It is a small price to pay to be good stewards of this precious land. Make your voice heard by asking Congress to boost national park funding levels rather than lower them.

To help keep your state parks open I encourage you to contact the governor�s office, state supervisors and other state officials.

For more information on state park closures be sure and read this week's feature article.

Until next week, plan your trip, travel safe and enjoy your RV experiences. Remember, getting there is half the fun!
Mark

Why are State Parks Taking the Budget Hit?
I find it odd that while numerous states are reporting state park attendance is up during the recession many parks are getting the ax to shave a few dollars off the state deficit. Something else I see as odd is while state park attendance increases many state budgets to fund the parks continue to decrease, and that some of the most beautiful and historical state parks in the country are closing altogether....... Read the article

...with Mark
Q. We park our RV at home, and have access to a 30-amp line; my inclination is to keep our MH plugged in continuously during nonuse with the fridge running and ready to go. Would we extend the life of the refrigerator by putting it in storage, that is, putting our selector switch to "STORAGE", thereby turning the unit off, removing all foods, and leaving the door open if we're not planning to use it for several months? Our fridge is a two-way: LPG or 120 VAC.

Mark Says: The only reason for leaving the refrigerator on would be if you use it for additional food storage when you are at home. If not, I would recommend turning it off and leaving the doors open when the RV is in storage. If you leave the RV plugged in all the time remember that the battery is being charged by the converter charger and you will have to keep an eye on the water levels in the battery too.

Check out this week's poll: "Do you see closing state parks as a way to decrease state budgets?" To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

Investing in National Parks Is Investing in America
Ask Congress to invest in our national parks
--America's best idea--by boosting funding levels above those proposed in the President's budget.....

Low cost method of remodeling or converting a motor coach
Because of the demand for a perfect motor home, many RV manufacturers will dispose of there products because of miniscule defects...

RV/bus conversion projects
Check out this photo gallery for a quick tour on how to do a conversion. ...

KOA-sponsored USA Bobsled Team Takes Gold Medal

Kampgrounds of America picked a winner when it decided to become a major sponsor of the USA Bobsled and Skeleton Team at the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, British Columbia.

The USA Four-Man Bobsled Team took the gold medal in exciting fashion Saturday during the next-to-last day of Olympic competition. The four-man team, which also is the current World Champion and World Cup Champion team, claimed the first U.S. medal in four-man bobsled since 1948.

�KOA is a great company and proved to be an enthusiastic partner,� said Darrin Steele, CEO of the United States Bobsled and Skeleton Federation (USBSF). �We depend on sponsorships like this one with KOA to have success like we had at this Olympics.� Kampgrounds of America CEO Jim Rogers congratulated the USA team, and said the relationship between the team and KOA has been rewarding for both sides. �The Winter Olympics brought the world�s elite athletes together to demonstrate the very best in outdoor recreation. Both KOA and the USBSF share a passion for dedication, hard work, competitive excellence and national pride and we are proud to be a member of the USBSF family.�

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1:
Public Campgrounds
Public campgrounds are the campgrounds found in our national parks and national forests, state parks and state forests, army corps of engineer projects and bureau of land management areas. These campgrounds are run by a government agency and are quite affordable. Public camping is more of what I consider back to nature type camping whereas most private campgrounds offer more amenities like a camp store, recreation centers, laundry rooms, playgrounds, swimming pools, full hook-ups and more. Public campgrounds will usually offer restrooms; a picnic table, fire pit and some will have shower facilities. You will see much more tent camping at public campgrounds than you will at private parks, and hook-ups like water and electricity may or may not be available for RVers. Many of these public campgrounds have size restrictions for RVs too. Be sure and check on any restrictions that may apply before attempting to stay at a public campground. If you enjoy getting back to nature and more primitive type camping try out a public campground while they are at this moment, still available.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2:
Site Survey
When you arrive at your campsite the first thing you need to do is what I refer to as a site survey. You need to locate the electric, water and sewer hook ups and make sure the electrical service is compatible with the electrical system on your RV. Next, you want to check the site for any overhead obstacles like low hanging tree branches that might interfere with parking or setting up the RV. When you position the unit on the site, make sure there is enough clearance for any slide-outs and that there is room to put the patio awning out. Before disconnecting a towable unit from the tow vehicle you will want to level the RV side to side and double check all clearances and access to utility hook ups..

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2010
This weeks special:

RV Campground Basics Ebook
I have always said if you�re going to buy an RV you need to use it; otherwise it is nothing more than a large and expensive lawn ornament. Where to go and what to do when you get there, can be confusing until you have a few RV trips under your belt. There is a lot to learn about public and private campgrounds and RV parks, and the more you know, the better your camping experience will be.

You need to determine how you plan to use your RV, where you plan to use your RV, and explore all of your options. How do you find these campgrounds, RV parks and RV resorts? Should you make reservations before leaving on a trip? How do you register when you arrive? What kind of site should you request? Do you need a partial hook up or a full hook up? What does campground etiquette mean? How do you determine the right camping club for you? The purpose of this e-book is to answer all of these questions and much more
sale price: $10.95 Buy Now

Share your thoughts & experiences with other RVers and Campers

RV Education 101 & RV University went mobile!
Check us out on the go
www.rveducation101.mobi
&
www.rvuniversity.mobi
from your phone!. .....

RV Links:

16 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

Money Saving DVD Sets Available

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

mark@rveducation101.com

dawn@rveducation101.com

TailGater, a simple, safe and easy way to transport propane tanks

TailGater propane strap

TailGater, the simple, safe and easy way to transport your propane tanks.

Ever wondered what would happen if you had to suddenly brake very hard to avoid a collision while transporting your propane tank in your pickup? Simply using a bungee to tie the tank down, or in some sort of base will NOT prevent the tank from flying through your back window, or worse, exploding.

So give yourself peace of mind by knowing that tank behind you is SECURE.

Built with 1200lb breaking strain webbing!

Designed and built by a full-time RV'er to solve the problem of transporting your 20lb or 30lb tanks, whether just down the road to the propane fill station, or on the road. No more bungees, milkcrates, ropes or wires!

www.tailgaterstrap.com

Pet Travel Survey Reveals Increase in Automobile Safety Precautions

Pet Travel Survey Reveals....
February 24, 2010 � South Portland, ME - Want to go for a ride? Those six little words are often music to a dog's ears. Whether you're bringing them to the local dog park, on vacation, or to visit friends and family, most dogs enjoy a road trip. You probably ensure that you and your human family are buckled up before you go, but are you also keeping your pet safe when they are riding in the car with you?

TRIPSwithPETS (dot) com, the leading authority on pet travel and pet friendly hotels, conducted a poll to find out how many pet owners are securing their furry companions while on the road. 53% of the 765 respondents reported taking proper safety precautions, which is up from just 44% only two years ago. Many states now have pending legislation regarding the use of pet restraints in a vehicle, so if you currently have your dog or cat �loose� in your car, it's time to consider using one of the following methods:

Vehicle Pet Barrier
This was the most popular pet travel restraint in the survey, cited to be used by 41% of pet owner respondents. These barriers are used in the cargo area of the vehicle, keeping your pet safely away from you and your passengers, and more importantly, away from the windshield in the event of an accident.

Pet Travel Crate
32% of pet owners in the poll reported putting their pet in a travel crate or carrier while inside the car. Make sure it's well-ventilated and large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down, and turn around in.
There are a variety of wire, mesh, hard plastic and soft-sided carriers available to fit your pet.
If you're buddy hasn't been familiarized with a crate environment, it will be important to do so prior to heading out.

Pet Safety Belt
Buckle 'em up like 9% of the people in the survey do. Dog seat belts are made to easily slip onto your existing vehicle seat belt and acts as a harness to keep your pet safely in the seat in case there is a sudden stop or impact. It also keeps pets from distracting drivers.

Pet Car Seat
For smaller pets, pet travel car seats are the perfect answer when you're on the go, and are a good option for 8% of the survey respondents.
Reminiscent of a booster seat, your pet is able to look out and see what is going on while your vehicle's own safety belt holds it in place. Your pet is secured in the car seat with a lead which is attached on to their harness.

Roaming Free is Not a Good Option
It's encouraging that owners traveling with their four-legged family members are trying to keep them safe, but 47% of the people who took the survey do not currently secure their pets in the car. Letting your pet have free reign in a vehicle or sit in your lap while driving can have serious consequences. Aside from the obvious implications during a crash, if the scared pet gets free from the car, he could wander out into the road or try to hamper the efforts of rescue workers. And although dogs love to stick their heads out windows, doing so can actually damage their eyes and ears, not to mention put them at risk of falling out.

The same also applies to truck beds.
An unrestrained pet can multiply its weight by hundreds or even thousands of pounds during an automobile accident. Some vehicle accident statistics report loose objects, including pets, to be one of the top five reasons for automobile injuries. Don't put your beloved pet in harm's way when you take them for a ride.

For more information about pet travel, visit TRIPSwithPETS (dot) com - the premier online guide for pet travel. TRIPSwithPETS (dot) com offers resources to ensure pets are welcome, happy, and safe when traveling. Visit TRIPSwithPETS (dot) com, to find a directory of pet friendly hotels & lodging across the U.S., airline pet policies, pet travel tips, pet travel supplies, along with other pet travel resources.

Contact:
Ann Kelly
ann (at) tripswithpets (dot) com

207-767-PETS (7387)

KOA�s Campground Operating System a Big Hit Down Under

Centralized Reservation System Benefits Australia�s BIG4 Holiday Parks

For More Information, Contact:
Mike Gast
Vice President of Communications
Kampgrounds of America, Inc.
406-254-7409
mgast@koa.net

BILLINGS, MT (February 23, 2010) � Kampgrounds of America�s KampSight campground operating system has found a new home � and a new name � on the other side of the world.

BIG4 Holiday Parks of Australia has adopted KOA�s KampSight as its software for centralized online reservations, renaming their version of the industry-leading system BIG4 PAM (Park Accommodation Management).

BIG4 PAM is a simple, all-in-one, web-based system for accommodation management that will not only improve the day-to-day operation of each member park in Australia and increase revenue, but will arm the BIG4 group with valuable consumer insights, improving its ability to market to different customer groups.Already, five BIG4 parks are using the new system, which enables them to track all room allocation in real time, removing the ongoing task of uploading inventory and ensuring they are not missing out on any potential business. In its first year of operation BIG4's new website, featuring 24-pages for each of its 180+ parks, has generated in excess of $6 million in bookings. The increased revenue is now averaging in excess of $1million per month with between $10 million to $12 million of online revenue forecast for the financial year.

"An upgraded, centralized system will only add to this increased revenue our parks are already enjoying," says BIG4 Holiday Parks CEO, Terry Goodall."Our relationship with Kampgrounds of America enables BIG4 to share best practice and adopt systems like this, which is modeled on KOA's KampSight system. These initiatives all provide a better customer experience and further cement our position as market leader," he said.

"One of the key advantages with BIG4 PAM is the removal of the need to constantly upload room inventory to the system. Typically, people will book a holiday between 30-40 days out, but potentially up to a year out, so by having a comprehensive offering of room availability our parks can capture that business then and there. We don't even like to think how much business our parks may have missed out on where inventory wasn't loaded.�

Goodall said KOA's proven track record with the KampSight operating system has enabled BIG4 to recommend this system to its parks with uncompromised confidence.

"KOA has been using this online accommodation management system at 100 per cent of its parks for three years now, with the system providing great benefits to its 400+ parks. While our system has some similar functions, we know from KOA's experience with their model that there is significant potential to increase revenue and further build our brand with a centralized system," he says.

KOA Chairman and CEO, Jim Rogers said the benefits KOA's centralized park management system has been providing both for guests and park owners."Today's hospitality guests want recognition, customized services, and technologically advanced conveniences. KOA's centralized park management system allows us to serve guests with the most advanced high tech/high touch technology in the outdoor hospitality sector," Rogers said.

"Over the last three years, more than one million bookings have been made directly online, with the average booking $120 giving a total revenue value of $120 million. Currently 30 percent of all bookings taken are made through KOA's centralized reservation system, and that is growing.

"The guest data has allowed us to launch the first automated loyalty rewards frequent camper program in North America,� Rogers said. �It also serves as the basis for our comprehensive guest feedback research which allows targeting very specific service and marketing opportunities by camper and park. Developed by park owners, the system includes financial, accounting, and reservations systems they needed to optimize the park business.�

BIG4 Holiday Parks plans to have all its parks transitioned onto the BIG4 PAM system within the next three years.

For more information on Kampgrounds of America Inc., visit www.koa.com. For more on BIG4 Holiday Parks, go to www.big4.com.au.

Low cost method of remodeling or converting a motor coach

ronthebusnut www.ronthebusnut.com buys takeouts, scratched & dented, over stocked, or reposed RV products.

Because of this, we are able to sell them to you for low, low prices.

Because of the demand for a perfect motor home, many RV manufacturers will dispose of there products because of miniscule defects. All of our products are tested, and if there are any scratches or minor defects our customers are informed.

Ronthebusnut provides the low cost method of remodeling or converting a motor coach!

RV University This Week 02/22/2010

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #53 - February 22, 2010

�RV proficiency improves with time, experience and of course education.�
~ Mark Polk

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

While we are waiting for the spring camping season to get here we usually attend a couple of RV shows. If you have never attended an RV show you should try to find one close to where you live, and go. RV shows are usually scheduled during the slow period of the year, the winter months, to help jump start the spring selling season. RV shows are a great source of information for the RV enthusiast. You can see all the new model year RV's, RV aftermarket products, RV accessories, get information on campgrounds and RV resorts and attend RV seminars. They can also be a great place to buy your RV, but do your research first.

Buying an RV is a major investment. It's important that you do your research before you set out to purchase your RV. One important aspect is that you buy from a reputable RV dealer with a professional staff. Someone that is willing to take care of you after the sale. A reputable dealer wants your business and they want you to return to them for future business.

Don't be afraid to ask them for a tour of the dealership. Do they have certified RV technicians in the service department? Do they have the capability and facilities to perform routine maintenance and warranty work on the units they sell? How about the parts and accessories department? Do they offer a good selection? Do they have a good selection of RV's to choose from with a professional sales staff?

If you do happen to go to a not-so-reputable RV dealership there are some things you need to watch out for, red flags you need to be aware of. This week's feature article takes a humorous approach to what you might hear from an RV salesperson when shopping for your RV, but sometimes there is a fine line between humor and reality.

Until next week, plan your trip, travel safe and enjoy your RV experiences. Remember, getting there is half the fun!
Mark

On the Lighter Side, Buying an RV!
I thought a little humor in your day would be good.
Here are some RV buying scenarios
you should try to avoid!....... Read the article

...with Mark
Q. Mark, There was discussion today on the American Coach E-mail List about Flying J refusing to fill a propane tank because the coach was over 12 years old. They said the tank needed to be "re - certified". Flying J said this was a new rule. Have you heard of this?

Mark Says: When it comes to RV's there are two types of propane containers, the DOT cylinders (portable cylinders used on trailers and your BBQ) and the ASME tank (permanently mounted tanks found on motorhomes).

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) pamphlet 58 states that all portable DOT cylinders need to be recertified after 12 years from the manufacturing date. Recertification is a documented inspection of the cylinder to make sure it is still safe to be used.

ASME tanks on motorhomes are not required to be recertified, but they should be inspected periodically. I have seen older motorhomes that are exposed to salt air that had mounts nearly rusted off and other problems with ASME tanks.

Check out this week's poll: "Do you use your cell phone to view websites?" To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

RV Education 101 & RV University went mobile!
Check us out on the go
www.rveducation101.mobi
&
www.rvuniversity.mobi
from your phone!. .....

RV Education 101 offers affordable RV driving and trailer towing training
�It would be extremely difficult to design some type of driver's training course for RVs all over the country," said Mark Polk, founder of RV Education 101. "There are a few RV training facilities available, but the RV owner must drive or tow the RV to get to where the training is.�...

Lazydays Employees Celebrate Grand Opening of The Lazydays House
The Lazydays Partners Foundation, along with Kids charity of Tampa Bay, recently celebrated the building completion of A Kid�s Place, a state-of-the-art center for abused, abandoned and neglected children....

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1:
To keep the refrigerator operating efficiently in the LP gas mode there is some routine maintenance you can perform. Remove the outside lower vent cover to access the back of the refrigerator. With the refrigerator turned off ensure all connections are clean and tight. Turn the refrigerator on in the LP gas mode and a look at the flame. If the flame is burning poorly, a yellow colored flame, or if the refrigerator isn't operating properly in the gas mode it's possible that the baffle inside the flue is covered with soot. Soot, rust and other debris can fall down and obstruct the burner assembly. When this happens it will be necessary to clean the flue and the burner assembly. Turn the refrigerator off again and locate the burner. Directly above the burner is the flue. The baffle is inside the flue. Wear a pair of safety glasses and use an air compressor to blow air up into the flue. After the flue is clean use the compressed air to remove any debris from the outside refrigerator compartment. Now, turn the refrigerator on in the LP gas mode to make sure it is working properly. Look for the bright blue flame. For a thorough cleaning of the flue and baffle it will be necessary to have your RV dealer do it for you. While it's there have them to do an LP gas pressure test too.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2:
Keep a small plastic clothes hamper in the RV. We keep ours in the shower while traveling. Everybody puts their dirty clothes in the hamper and when it�s time to wash the clothes it�s easy to carry to the Laundromat. When the clothes are washed and dried you can fold them, put them back in the hamper to carry back to the RV.

RV Quick Tip #3- Submitted by J. Patrick Moore, CMCA:
When you pull into the campground and unhitch your trailer, put a cover over the hitch ball. This prevents you from getting grease on your clothes or your legs if you step too close to the hitch. The covers are inexpensive and an save a lot of clothes (and grief!). Since we leave our receiver on all year, the hitch ball cover prevents exposure to the elements, and keeps the grease dry as well. We also use a hitch lock, to prevent theft of the trailer when parked.

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2010
This weeks special:

RV Buyers Survival Guide Ebook
The all new THIRD Edition of the RV Buyers Survival guide. Edition 1 sold out over 10,000 copies in just 18 months and helped thousands of RVers save big on inflated asking prices. The two or so hours of reading will enlighten you to the ins and outs of the RV Buying process. A process who's "insider secrets" have been closely guarded until now. You'll build your confidence by understanding both how to properly shop for an RV, how to negotiate by being able to calculate the dealers actual cost factors, and how to control the sales process. Armed with this information you'll be able to join Bob's swelling ranks of readers who have saved thousands of dollars on their purchases. Many happy readers have said that the "RV Buyers Survival Guide" was the best investment they made in owning an RV.
sale price: $14.00 Buy Now

RV Safety Features, Tips and Tricks Ebook
It is extremely important that RV owners understand all of the safety features on their RV, and how to properly use this safety equipment. The majority of RVers don�t know that there are between 6,500 and 20,000 reported RV fires each year, and that an RV can burn completely to the ground in as little as six minutes! These same RVers need to know what type of fire extinguisher to use on what type of fire, and how to properly use a fire extinguisher? Another disturbing fact is that carbon monoxide is the number one cause of poisoning deaths in the United States each year? RVers, in particular, need to understand what the symptoms for carbon monoxide poisoning are, and what to do if somebody is exposed to it?
Other important RV safety topics covered in this e-book include; LP gas system safety, water system safety & electrical system safety, RV emergency escape plans, RV emergency weather planning, getting there safely, RV travel security and more.
sale price: $11.95 Buy Now

Share your thoughts & experiences with other RVers and Campers

RV Education 101 & RV University went mobile!
Check us out on the go
www.rveducation101.mobi
&
www.rvuniversity.mobi
from your phone!. .....

RV Links:

16 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

Money Saving DVD Sets Available

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

A product Mark personally uses and endorses Camping/RV Battery Chargers BatteryMINDers� are the new generation of SMART, pulse type "computer-on-a-chip" chargers, that safely charge and maintain all size / type / brands of batteries including starter, deep cycle and sealed types including AGM �dry� made by OPTIMA, ODYSSEY, EXIDE, INTERSTATE, et al. They do all of this without ever overcharging, no matter how long they are left on charge � days-weeks-or even months. Dubbed the chargers with "brains," they are the first to fully-automatically reverse the primary cause of early battery failure known as "sulfation". Sulfated batteries once considered beyond recovery can now be brought back to long-term useful condition. Certain models of BatteryMINDers� can more than double the useful life of new batteries.

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

mark@rveducation101.com

dawn@rveducation101.com

RV Education 101 offers affordable RV driving, towing training

HARRELLS, N.C. -- RV Education 101, a video and RV information company, fills the need for RV driver�s training and trailer towing training in easy-to-follow instructional DVDs.

People can watch the DVD in the comfort of their own homes, as many times as necessary, and find an area to apply the techniques they learned until they are more comfortable driving or towing the RV.

�It would be extremely difficult to design some type of driver's training course for RVs all over the country," said Mark Polk, founder of RV Education 101. "There are a few RV training facilities available, but the RV owner must drive or tow the RV to get to where the training is.�

Many people, especially new RVers or those who have never driven large vehicles, don't feel comfortable towing a trailer or driving a large motorhome without some type of additional training. When most people were taught to drive they were just taught the hows and not the whys, said Polk. Teaching the whys or the mechanics of driving gives RVers the tools and skills they can apply to any vehicle or any driving situation.

In the motorhome driving video, Polk joins Lorrin Walsh, a professional driver and author of Drive Your Motorhome Like a Pro, to provide the tools to help RV consumers drive their RVs like a professional driver. That means professionalism developed by the ongoing awareness of driving motor coaches, and the execution of unique driving techniques needed to become a safer and a more confident driver, said Polk.

Other DVD�s in the training library instruct individuals on how to properly and safely tow a travel trailer and fifth wheel trailer, and everything consumers need to know about safely towing a vehicle behind a motorized RV.

�Weight and towing issues are probably the least understood topics among the RV consumer," Polk explained. "Towing a trailer, or a vehicle behind a motorhome, can be an enjoyable experience if you have a proper match between the tow vehicle and trailer, the proper hitch work and you�re educated about weight ratings and how to tow.

"The great thing about DVD training is that RV consumers can review the training videos as many times as needed," said Polk. "Education is the single most important thing you can do for yourself."

For more information about RV Education 101 training products,, visit www.rveducation101.com

RV University This Week 02/15/2010

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #53 - February 14, 2010

�To me RVing represents spirit, excitement, a sense of adventure, exploration and discovery; but doing it all in comfort.�
~ Mark Polk

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

I hope everybody had a good Valentines Day!

With a short break in the weather last week we stayed busy filming and trying to get caught up on some video projects. Then on Friday night we had our first snow of the season. We had about 5 inches of accumulation which doesn't compare to other parts of the country, but was significant for this area. It was fun to see kids everywhere making snowmen, having snowball fights and searching for the smallest of hills to sled and slide down. Needless to say it didn't last long, by Sunday afternoon most of it was gone, except for the well built snowmen.

A couple of weeks ago I wrote an article on driving motorhomes, and the need for the co-pilot to feel comfortable and confident with driving too. I received a great deal of responses to the article, so I decided to follow up with an article offering some tips to help improve your driving skills. These tips are from our driving DVD, and I would like to thank Lorrin Walsh, co-host and author of Drive your Motorhome like a Pro, for his contributions.

For those of you who tow trailers we included a couple of articles on dealing with trailer sway in this weeks newsletter.

PS
Enjoy the Winter Olympics

Until next week, plan your trip, travel safe and enjoy your RV experiences. Remember, getting there is half the fun!
Mark

Polk�s Top 7 Tips for Improving Your Motorhome Driving Skills
I always thought I was a good driver, but even old dogs can learn new tricks. I enlisted the help from a professional driver and book author Lorrin Walsh....... Read the article

Trailer Sway, What it is & How to Control it
An important factor in controlling sway is the amount of tongue weight applied to the hitch ball, and how that weight is distributed to the tires on the tow vehicle. .......
Read the article Part 1

Read the article Part 2

Check out this week's poll: "RV Campground Reservations" To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1:
Tires and load range designations on tires have changed over the years. It used to be a 6-ply or 8-ply tire, and you knew the higher the number the stronger the tire. Now they use a letter to designate load range and tire strength. To help simplify this you can take the letter for the load range on the tire, determine what number it represents in the alphabet, and multiply that by two, to determine the strength of the tire. It sounds much more difficult than it is. If your tire is a load range �D� that is the 4th letter in the alphabet. 4 X 2 equals 8 so a load range �D� tire is equivalent to an 8-ply tire in strength.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2:
After you unhitch your trailer at the campground, remove the hitch head or trailer ball mount from the receiver and secure it if it doesn�t have a locking mechanism. Not everyone at the campground is honest. It will also protect your shins and children from getting hurt when playing around it.

Aged Tires: A Driving Hazard?
Please watch this very important video. It may save a life....ABC News went undercover and found retailers selling aged tires as brand new. .....

Statistical Surveys, Inc. Recognizes Fleetwood RV as Top-Selling Class A Motor Home Manufacturer in 2009
Fleetwood has been recognized as the number one Class A motor home brand for 22 of the past 23 years. ....

...with Mark

Q. Hi Mark I purchased the maintenance DVD. Where is the coach battery usually located?

Mark Says:That's a good question. RV manufacturers basically put them anywhere there is room. A lot of times they are located under the entry step as you enter the coach. Sometimes they dedicate one of the outside storage compartments for the auxiliary batteries. I have seen them placed under the coach (very difficult to work on) and I have seen them inside the RV. If it is inside, it must be in a compartment that is vented outside.

***

Q. We have an Itasca Latitude and wish to sanitize the fresh water tank when I de-winterize in a couple weeks. I have watched your short video on this procedure, but am unsure of how to get the diluted bleach solution into my fresh water tank. I do not have an opening that I can stick a water hose into to add the mixture as shown in your video. Do I put the diluted bleach solution into my fresh water filter canister (with filter element removed) and then flush it into the fresh water tank in this manner?? I would certainly appreciate your response.

Mark Says: I am guessing that you fill the fresh water holding tank by connecting to the city water and then use some type of diverter system to fill the water tank. If so, then it should work by adding the solution to the filter canister (less the filter) or I have heard of individuals who actually pour the diluted solution directly into the end of the hose and then hook the hose up, turn the water on and fill the tank.

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2010

Drive Your Motorhome Like a Pro DVD
Now you don't have to drive across the country in search of a driving school to learn driving skills. Drive Your Motorhome Like a Pro is your complete video guide to professional driving techniques for beginners to experienced drivers. It takes commercial driving training techniques and converts them to layman's terms. It explains basic rules so you can apply them to any vehicle you might drive.Driving a motorhome, especially for the first time can be very intimidating. When most people were taught to drive they were just taught the hows and not the whys. Teaching the whys, or the mechanics of driving gives you the tools and skills you can apply to any vehicle or any driving situation.

sale price: $22.95 Buy Now

Trailer Towing, Weights, Hitch Work and Backing DVD
Take the time to properly educate yourself about trailer towing, weights, hitch work and backing. Let us teach you some tips and techniques to make towing much easier. How to properly match your tow vehicle to a trailer, learning the terminology, proper and safe hitch work is a must. Demonstration is shown on a travel trailer with a fifth wheel hitching portion demonstrated on a fifth wheel. Mark Polk has been an expert witness in a few legal cases, where people were paralyzed and killed. The common factor in these cases involved improperly matched tow vehicles and trailers. Don�t depend on automobile dealerships and RV dealerships to always give you 100% accurate information. Do your homework before purchasing a tow vehicle and trailer.

sale price: $22.95 Buy Now

Share your thoughts & experiences with other RVers and Campers

RV Links:

16 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

Money Saving DVD Sets Available

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

To contact us with feedback or questions, email to: info@rveducation101.com

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

RV University This Week 02/08/2010

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #52 - February 8, 2010

�For many years my passion for camping was roughing it in tents; my passion for camping remains, but the tents have evolved into RV�s.�
~ Mark Polk

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

Well football season is officially over. It's a good thing I didn't bet any money on the Super Bowl because I took the Colts over the Saints. I learned my lesson about betting on football games many years ago. Needless to say it was one of those expensive lessons that you learn the hard way.

That brings me to another lesson that pertains to RV's. Would you take a cross country RV trip without a spare tire for the RV? Why don't some RV's come with spare tires? If your RV does have a spare tire should you attempt to change a tire by yourself? Be sure to read this week's feature article to learn a lesson about RV's and spare tires.

Until next week, plan your trip, travel safe and enjoy your RV experiences. Remember, getting there is half the fun!
Mark

Where�s the Spare? Why don�t some RV manufacturers include a spare tire with a new RV? Is it a liability issue or a cost issue? I have heard both sides of the story ....... Read the article

...with Mark

Q. Temperature wise, what are the drawbacks of leaving a TV in my RV over the summer and winter?

Mark Says:I wouldn't worry too much. There are literally millions of RV's stored in every imaginable temperature range and I personally don't know anybody that physically removes the built in televisions that are commonly found in many RV's. I think what is important is to see if your TV manual lists an operating range as far as temperatures go. I know some plasma TV manufacturers list an operating range say for example of 32 degrees to 104 degrees. In this situation I would just make sure the temperature is within that range before attempting to use it. Otherwise I don't see a problem.

***

On last weeks topic, this is a good article from our friend and RV Living in the 21st Century author: Peggi McDonald: The Joys Of Winter Camping

Check out this week's poll: "Did your RV come with a spare tire?" To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

Share your thoughts & experiences with other RVers and Campers

RV Buying Frequently Asked Questions .....

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1:
Emergency Roadside Assistance
Don�t get an extended service plan confused with an emergency roadside assistance plan. Some service plans do offer additional coverage and protection like a towing service or tire repair service, but most don�t. Many RV manufacturers include an emergency roadside plan for a certain time period when you purchase a new RV. If the RV you buy does not come with one, I recommend you look into and purchase a good roadside assistance plan. It can be the difference between a good vacation and a ruined vacation. This is something else you will want to shop around and compare prices on before you buy. RV clubs offer discounted rates to members and there are many plans to choose from.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2:
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is also known as �No-Fault Coverage� and can be a first or third party coverage. This is a statutory coverage that is only available in some states and provides protection for injuries sustained in an accident regardless of fault. In a true no-fault state your insurer pays for your injuries, and the other party�s insurer pays for their injuries regardless of who is at-fault. PIP benefits are state mandated and can include medical expenses, lost wages, funeral expenses and substitute services. If you live in a PIP state, you should consult your insurance agent or the department of insurance for more information on the PIP options and rules that pertain to your state.

Your RV insurance can and should fit your RV. To get a free RV insurance quote with absolutely no obligation from Explorer RV Insurance Agency, Inc. call 1-888-774-6778

Come Camp & Care With Us Weekend 2010
See the list of all of the KOA Kampgrounds throughout North America that are participating in the May 14 and 15 �Come Kamp & Care With Us Weekend.�.....

Heartland RV Acquires Fleetwood Brands
Elkhart-based Heartland Recreational Vehicles LLC says it has acquired the last active towable brand trademarks from Fleetwood Enterprises Inc. The deal includes some of the industry's notable brands activity including Prowler, Pioneer and Wilderness. ....

State park parking areas considered 'target-rich' for vehicle prowlers
law enforcement professionals urge park and trail participants to either leave valuables at home or to lock them in the trunk which is less susceptible to being prowled....

RV Links:
Need RV service in Madison, Alabama?
Performance RV services all types of RV's from motorhomes to trailers regardless of brand or year with qualified and trained technicians. While carrying a wide selection of RV accessories, with parts for most RV chassis, generators, and appliances.....

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2010

RV Campground Basics DVDWhen you purchase an RV, where to go and what to do when you get there can be confusing until you have a few RV trips under your belt. There is a lot to learn about public & private campgrounds and RV Parks, and the more you know, the better your camping experiences will be. How do you find RV campgrounds, parks and resorts? Should you make reservations before leaving on a trip? How do you register when you arrive at the campground? What kind of site should you request? Do you need a partial hook up or a full hook up? How do you set the RV up at the campground? What does campground etiquette mean? How do you determine the right camping club or camping network for you? That is the purpose of this DVD, to answer all of these questions and much More

sale price: $21.95 Buy Now

16 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

Money Saving DVD Sets Available

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

To contact us with feedback or questions, email to: info@rveducation101.com

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

Are you in Colorado Springs? Let Around the World RV perform your Maintenance and Service to your RV

Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Let Around the World RV perform your Maintenance and Service to your RV
Electrical System��..$89.00
Electrical System
Perform every 6 months
12 volt out put
Inspect and test all lights
Monitor panel system check
110-Volt system priority check
Converter operation and output system check
Shore cord and circuit breakers
Generator operation and output

Full Inspection��. $199.00
Full Inspection includes comprehensive inspection points in these areas
Check all electrical outlets
Check inverters and converters
Check generator systems
Check plumbing for leaks and proper operation
Check LP systems
Check all appliances

Wheel Bearing Packs........... $129.50 � $194.25 + seals
Wheel Bearing Packs Double Axle $129.50 + seals Triple Axle $194.25 + seals Bearing Packs Include
Inspect brake shoes, bearings and magnets
Clean & repack wheel bearings
Adjust brake linings as needed
Verify the operation of the electric break magnets & break-away switch
Grease seals are extra, prices vary by axle size

Water Heater Service��...$59.50
Water Heater Service
For operation safety and fuel efficiency
Check condition of Anode Rod
Check relief valve
Adjust burners and electrodes
Check thermocouple
Check module boards
Check complete operation
Check burner assembly

Refrigerator Service��.��..$ 69.50
Refrigerator Service
Verify unit is air tight in compartment
Refrigerator is properly vented (roof and sidewall)
Clean and adjust burner and orifice
Inspect and test all door seals
Check LP Pressure and proper voltage
Clean roof vent and check baffle

Water System Check��..� $49.50
Water System Check
Water pump operation
Check all faucets
Check holding tanks
Check fresh water fill
Complete water line pressure test
Check all gate valves

LP Inspection Service��..�. $89.50
LP Inspection Service
Inspect regulators and LP tanks
Complete a drop down pressure test
Complete a line pressure test
Check all LP detectors
LABOR RATES $75.00 an Hour. 10% OFF PARTS THROUGH FEBUARY!

Appliance/Accessories Check��. $89.50
Appliance/Accessories Check
Check the following for proper operation
Antennas
Furnace
DVD Players
Roof - A/C
Water Heater
Refrigerator
Range/Oven
Awnings
TV's

RV Orientation
Orientates the customer with ��.�. $49.00
RV Orientation
Orientates the customer with
All Exterior Components
All Interior Components

Basic Winterization��. $74.50
Basic Winterization
Drain fresh water tank and water heater
Blow out water lines with compressed air
Open toilet valve allow air to force out any water
Fill P-Traps with anti-freeze
Includes 1 gallon of anti-freeze

Generator Service/Oil Change��. $88.50
Generator Oil Change
Manufacturers recommend this service every 50 operating hours or 12 months
Change oil and filter
Service includes required oil and filter. If needed, generator removal

Furnace Service��. $150.50
Furnace Service
For operation safety & fuel efficiency
Clean main burner orifice
Clean/Inspect/Adjust electrode assembly
Clean blower wheel
Test module board/inspect & clean board contacts
Clean & inspect combustion chamber
Inspect fan motor
Clean & inspect vent tubes and outer casing

Power Tongue Jack Installed��.. $265.00
Power Tongue Jack
LCI Power Post Jack 12V 2500 LBS
Labor to install

Basic Exterior Cleaning Package��....$2.75 per foot
Basic Package
Hand Wash exterior

Basic Interior Cleaning Package��.... $2.75 per foot
Basic Package Includes
Cleaning of interior
Wipe down cabinets with factory approved lemon oil

Basic Interior / Exterior Package�.... $4.50 per foot
Basic Interior / Exterior Package
Hand Wash exterior
Cleaning of interior
Wipe down cabinets with factory approved lemon oil

Roof Maintenance/Reseal��..� $215.05
Roof Maintenance/Reseal (includes sealant)
Reseal all roof molds on both sides
Reseal front and rear roof moldings (does not apply to vertical side moldings)
Reseal all roof vents and plumbing vents.
Complete roof wash
Free exterior coach wash

Exterior Seal Maintenance/Reseal��.. $265.05
Exterior Seal Maintenance/Reseal (includes sealant)
Reseal all four vertical corner moldings
Reseal all compartment / luggage doors
Reseal all windows and entry doors
Reseal all exterior lighting
Reseal electrical plugs
Free exterior coach wash

Enclosed Tanks/Chassis�� $19.10 per foot
Enclosed Tanks/Chassis
Install of corrugated profile board
Under side of tanks enclosed

http://bit.ly/b55TVG

Rent an RV in Colorado - Around The World RV

Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Around The World RV is your full-service Colorado RV Dealer in Colorado Springs, family friend with thousands of RV Parts and RV Accessories. We are the #1 Service Center in Colorado and the USA! And be sure to check out our Eclipse 5th Wheels located here at our Colorado RV Dealership. Around The World RV is Colorado's preferred RV Dealer and proud to carry Eclipse 5th Wheels and Travel Trailers. Also, new to Around The World RV is the Eclipse Toy Hauler. Which brings the ultimate in luxury to the outdoors. We are family owned business here in Colorado Springs and will continue to provide the same great customer service and value for many years to come.

Parts and Accessories department fully stocked with all the camping necessities as well as any hard to find repair parts. We are proud of our Service Center staffed by knowledgeable, experienced and friendly RVDA/RVIA Certified and Master Technicians. Our Service Center makes the total camping experience complete by supporting your RV investment from Around The World RV with professional service that only a certified professional can provide.

Colorado Luxury RV, Trailer & Toy Hauler Rental Co.

For the best in Colorado RV rentals , Around the World RV is your source� and is now your home for the best deals in Colorado too! We offer a phenomenal selection of motor home rental Colorado options. We provide late model motor homes, travel trailers, toy haulers, and RV rentals. With all of the best in family transportation choices, RV rental, Colorado only has one source to get you where you are going: Around The World RV! We can get you on the road enjoying your family trip from sea to shining sea in one of our Colorado RV rental models that will accommodate your needs and your wallet. We know that travel can be expensive. Planning for an RV rental, CO or anywhere else can seem so costly that other means of transportation may appeal to your finances but not your desires � that is why we offer the most competitive prices in the RV rentals Colorado market today as well as the best pricing in the entire RV trailer rental industry. Call us today for more information on planning your RV, motor home, toy hauler, or travel trailer rental!

Around The World RV Rentals
From Luxury Motor Home To Travel Trailer Rentals

RV & Boat Storage

About Us

Let Around the World RV perform your Maintenance and Service to your RV

Around The World RV
555 Hathaway Dr.
Colorado Springs, Co 80915
719-596-0444 and 719-232-5466

E-mail: Around The World RV

Business Hours: Monday-Friday 8am to 6pm

RV Product Savvy with Mark Polk

RVing with Mark Polk on Youtube

RV University This Week 02/01/2010

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #51 - February 1, 2010

�The neat thing about RVing is each time I walk in to the RV my mind is flooded with only good memories.�
~ Mark Polk

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

We were thinking about taking a short weekend RV trip when suddenly we get hit with an ice storm. I guess it's still a little early to take the RV out of winter hibernation. The weather is really odd in this part of the country. Last Thursday I was working in the yard wearing jeans and a short sleeve shirt and Saturday we have an ice storm with temperatures in the teens.

We take lots of weekend RV trips during the regular camping season and it is usually to our favorite destination at the beach. The other day I wanted to see where else we could get away for the weekend but not have to travel too far from home. Be sure to read this week's feature article to see what I discovered.

On another note I want to talk briefly about personal security issues when we travel by RV. RVing is and should be fun. When we travel by RV we feel safe and secure. The majority of campgrounds and destinations we visit are safe and secure. Eventually we let our guard down a little because it is such a relaxed environment. That's what happened to Nick Russell and his wife on a recent RV outing to get their RV repaired. They traveled by RV for years never expecting to encounter a problem and then it happened, a violent encounter! Fortunately nobody was hurt, but it opens our eyes to the possibility of what can happen and it makes us wonder what we would do put in the same situation.

What measures can you take to help keep your guard up and travel safe in your RV? Read my RV Travel Security article for some safety tips.

Until next week, plan your trip, travel safe and enjoy your RV experiences. Remember, getting there is half the fun!
Mark

Cost Effective Weekend RV Fun Sometimes spending your weekend at home is just plain boring. There really isn�t much to do, but on the other hand you don�t have much of time before the weekend is over and it�s back to work again....... Read the article

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1:
Let's take a moment and discuss some dos and don'ts concerning LP gas:

Do remember to turn the main gas supply on when you're ready to use a gas appliance.

Do have the system checked if you suspect a leak, disturb the gas system, or at least once annually.

Do take the proper steps to safely transport, store and use LP gas cylinders. (look at this system we came across)

Do review all cautions and warnings on the LP gas system and appliances in your owner's manual.

Do not use an open flame to check for leaks.

Do not use the range burners or oven as a source of heat; it is not vented outside and depleted oxygen can cause asphyxiation.

Do not go to a gas station to refuel unless you extinguish any open flames and, or pilot lights and turn LP gas appliances off.

Do not transport LP gas cylinders inside a vehicle.

Do not be afraid of LP gas, but do respect it and handle it properly.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2:
Preventive Maintenance : is maintenance you perform on your RV before a problem exists. These checks are designed to prevent or identify potential problems that could lead to mechanical breakdown, malfunction or failure of a component or system on your RV. Preventive Maintenance consists of cleaning, inspecting, lubricating, adjusting and servicing your RV.

Scheduled or routine maintenance: is performed in intervals normally based on time, mileage or hours. Scheduled maintenance is designed to keep your RV in top operating condition and prevent untimely breakdowns and repairs. It is absolutely essential that you read your owner�s manual and warranty information in regards to who is responsible for what when it comes to scheduled maintenance. Scheduled maintenance that is required by the manufacturer and not performed can void your warranty.

Emergency Maintenance: is maintenance and / or repairs that are required when you least expect it due to component, system or mechanical failure. In many situations emergency maintenance is required because preventive maintenance and scheduled maintenance were not performed.

Loan Calculator .....

Check out this week's poll: "Who drives or tows the RV most?" To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

Share your thoughts & experiences with other RVers and Campers

Big problem for small business; lenders reluctant to make loans
HGR Truck & Trailer has been dealing with tough times since 2007, when soaring gas prices flattened its sales of cargo and utility trailers.....

Annual RV convention on way to Hernando County
Recreational vehicles of all types, from luxury liners to tag-alongs, are on their way once again activity to Hernando County....

Could trailers be sent to Haiti instead of auctioned off?
Would unused trailers manufactured to serve people affected by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 be a good fit for residents of activity earthquake-ravaged Haiti?....

...with Mark
Q. Hi Mark,
I enjoyed your article on cold weather RVing . We are in the process of purchasing our first Class A motor home and we would like to find one that can be used in freezing temperatures.

We are looking at fairly high end, older (early to mid 90's) diesel pushers such as 1992 the Monaco Crown Royal or Dynasty, Newmar Mountain Aire, Holiday Rambler, etc. How can I tell if the motor home we are considering is equipped for freezing temperature use? Is having double pane windows a good indicator?

Do you know which models are particularly good and/or bad at being used in freezing temperatures?

Where can I find this information?
Around here it is typically in the +7�F to +23�F range during the winter with cold snaps into the 0�F range and once in blue moon (every 10 or so years) we will experience a super cold night down to close to -40�F. I'm not expecting to camp in -40�, but above 0�F would be nice.

I would hope that at least the high end motor homes, and or specific make/model motor homes could provide fully functional running water in sub-zero temperatures as long as the main furnace is used to keep the interior at room temperature (knowing that the furnace is used to heat the water tank bays on many, if not all Class A motor homes). Ideally I would like my family to be able to fully utilize running water while we travel in the winter with whichever RV we purchase.
Thank you.

Mark Says:Unfortunately RV's really aren't designed for sub zero temperatures. They are only required to meet minimal insulation values and other requirements that could cause major problems in freezing temperatures. Condensation issues, frozen plumbing systems, frozen wastewater valves and inadequate heating sources are just a few problems you may encounter.

With that said some RV's are built with options like arctic packages where some of these concerns are upgraded for cold weather camping, but still not at 40 below zero. You would definitely want an RV with these options so you would have heated holding tanks, heated compartments where ever water lines are located, upgraded furnace, dual pane windows, and upgraded insulation values. Even with this you would always need a guaranteed source of heat to prevent water and people from freezing.

The problem is this type of equipment is considered an option in most cases and the first owner of the RV would have had to add these options when the unit was built. So, with an older unit you would need to find one built like this. Higher end units really have nothing to do with these types of features, except maybe for dual pane windows and a larger furnace to heat a larger space.

I have camped in 8 to 15 below temperatures and found it difficult to keep the unit warm and had problems with the holding tanks freezing. The only water you would have available is what you can carry in the on board fresh water tank because no water source would be available in those temperatures. Basically the entire water system, including the holding tank would need to be in heated space to have access to running water, and the heat source would need to be constant for the duration of your trip.

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2010

RV Seminar DVD 6PACK Plus free DVDSAVE MONEY---LIMITED TIME ONLY- Now offering a free DVD with this purchase, titled: The RV Orientaion. The RV Orientation is not sold retail only through RV Dealers. The RV Orientation is 54 minutes long and it�s packed with information on topics like campground setup, the LP gas system, water system, electrical system and much more. We even added a bonus chapter on RV safety features and some bloopers to make it more entertaining. It applies to all types of RV's, with the only exception being a pop-up.
sale price: $99.95 Buy Now

16 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

Money Saving DVD Sets Available

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

To contact us with feedback or questions, email to: info@rveducation101.com

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

RV Education 101 is now on Facebook

Become a Fan

Become a fan

RV University This Week 1/25/2010

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #50 - January 25, 2010

�Travel by RV beats travel by automobile, train, and plane... period!�
~ Mark Polk

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

January is usually a month for planning what we want to accomplish the rest of the year. What projects need to be completed, what trips need to be scheduled and what goals we would like to reach in 2010. It seems as though I blinked my eyes and January is nearly over. We have lots of projects, lots of trips and many goals, but little planning.

In addition to time passing quickly other important matters come up, like the Super Bowl. I told Dawn that she really can't expect me to concentrate on work when the Super Bowl is only two weeks away. Even with the Steelers out of contention I can't just not concentrate on the Super Bowl.

My predictions for the AFC and NFC champions were the Colts and the Vikings respectively. Although I was glad to see the Saints finally make it to the Super Bowl, I don't think they can win it against the Colts.

I told Dawn it's only for two more weeks and then it's over. I can get back to work and get some things done in 2010. Oh boy, I forgot, the Winter Olympics start in February!

Until next week, Happy Camping
Mark

Who is that driving the motorhome? Over the weekend we started planning for an RV trip we are taking later this summer. It�s about 6,000 miles roundtrip. We are on somewhat of a timeline and I wanted an idea on average of how many miles we would travel each day, based on our schedule....... Read the article

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1:
Radiator & Heater Hoses: Coolant hoses deteriorate from the inside out. Inspect all hoses for wear, cracks, soft spots, brittle areas and leaks. Inspect any hose clamps for secure mounting. Replace any damaged hoses or clamps as required. Inspect the face of the radiator for bugs, dirt and debris. Clean radiator fins in accordance with the owner�s manual instructions.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2:
Spotters: The most important help you can have when backing a trailer is a spotter. They can watch what is happening behind you, in your blind spots and let you know what corrections need to be made. When you have a spotter you both need to agree on a set of rules. What I mean by this is where will the spotter be located, how will you communicate with each other, and who is telling whom what to do.

Rule number one is: when you use a spotter, whatever happens, it is the spotter�s responsibility. They are your eyes and the driver should do exactly what the spotter tells them to do.
Rule number two is: use only one spotter. If you use two spotters I guarantee you they will both be telling you to do something different.

You should develop hand signals that you both understand. How will you start, stop, turn left, turn right and know when to pull forward. (Some people like to use 2 way radios to communicate with each other.) The spotter needs to be in your view at all times. Note: NEVER continue to back a trailer when you cannot see your spotter

Mark's RV Quick Tip #3: The trick to backing without mirrors is to back in so the trailer turns towards the left side (drivers side) of the vehicle. This way you can look out the window over your shoulder and see what the trailer is doing. Backing from the right side (passenger side) is the blind side. It is much more difficult and dangerous to back from the right side. It is very easy for children and pets to suddenly be in your blind spot with out you knowing. If you notice almost every campground you stop at is designed to allow you to back into the site from the driver�s side. Using mirrors or not using mirrors is up to you, but whenever possible, my recommendation is that you should always have a spotter to assist you when backing.

COACHMEN / SPORTSCOACH LEGEND RECALLS
Coachmen recalls some Sportscoach motorhomes to correct a problem with the air brakes.....

Yellowstone hit by swarm of earthquakes
Yellowstone National Park has been rattled by more than 250 earthquakes in two days following a period of 11 months of quiet seismic activity in the park......

Fuel Cost Calculator .....

Check out this week's poll: " Internet usage while traveling" To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

Become a fan

...with Mark
Q. I'm thinking of purchasing a Honda CRV to tow behind my motor home. My motor home has a Class II 3,500 lb rated receiver. Since the CRV weights approx 3,500 lbs, I'm hoping my current hitch will be satisfactory. Can you provide me your opinion?
Thank you.

Mark Says:The 3,500 pound rating is the maximum amount of weight the receiver is rated to handle. Often times RV manufacturers limit the receivers rating to 3,500 pounds because of the frame rail extensions added to the frame of the chassis to build the box on, and for various other reasons even though the motorhome may have a higher tow rating.

If the weight of the towed vehicle, plus any weight you plan to put in the towed vehicle, will exceed the receivers maximum rating you should not do it. If it is at or below the maximum rating it shouldn't be a problem.

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2010

The RV E-book (PDF instant download file)Your personal guide to understanding and enjoying your RV. "RV Expert" Mark Polk turns complex into easy, making all of your experiences safe, fun & stress free.

The RV Book was written to help make all of your RV experiences safe, fun and stress free. We purchase RV�s so we can travel to new destinations, relax and build lasting memories with our family and friends. We want to get away from work, the phone calls and other day-to-day hassles. RV�s give us the freedom to go wherever we want, whenever we want. But, nothing will ruin a trip or a vacation quicker than not understanding how to properly use and maintain your RV..

*NOTE: This electronic file is to be downloaded immediately after purchase and is delivered in Adobe Acrobat PDF format.You can read it on your computer or print it for reading later. You can also save this instant download to a memory stick or disc and take it to a print shop to have it printed and/or spiral bound. *It is a copyright violation to share these files with anyone other than the purchaser.

sale price: $16.95 Buy Now

Camping/RV Battery Chargers BatteryMINDers� are the new generation of SMART, pulse type "computer-on-a-chip" chargers, that safely charge and maintain all size / type / brands of batteries including starter, deep cycle and sealed types including AGM �dry� made by OPTIMA, ODYSSEY, EXIDE, INTERSTATE, et al. They do all of this without ever overcharging, no matter how long they are left on charge � days-weeks-or even months. Dubbed the chargers with "brains," they are the first to fully-automatically reverse the primary cause of early battery failure known as "sulfation". Sulfated batteries once considered beyond recovery can now be brought back to long-term useful condition. Certain models of BatteryMINDers� can more than double the useful life of new batteries.

16 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

Money Saving DVD Sets Available

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

RV Product Savvy with Mark Polk Free short videos

RVing with Mark Polk on Youtube. Over 27free RV Video tips plus product sample clips

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

To contact us with feedback or questions, email to: info@rveducation101.com

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

RV University This Week 1/18/2010

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #49 - January 18, 2010

"The wisest mind has something yet to learn."
~ George Santayana (1863 - 1952)

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

We had some unusually cold weather for this area in the last week and a half. Temperatures in the teens at night and not getting above freezing during the daytime. I spent most of last week repairing some plumbing problems at a rental house of ours. It was cold and wet and miserable, not only trying to locate the leak but to fix it too. It turned out it was leaking under the deck, requiring a large portion of the deck to be removed and the ground below dug up. I repaired the leak and finished replacing the torn up deck on Saturday. Now that it's all done the temperatures have been in the mid-sixties during the day.

Even though the water leak was not a result of a frozen water line I couldn't help but think how glad I was that I winterized the RV plumbing system before the cold weather hit. There have been winters here where it never got cold enough for water lines to freeze, but I always winterize the RV just in case. I think it really paid off this year! What's that old quote from Ben Franklin? An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure!

Over the last several months we have conducted numerous RV related polls in our weekly newsletter. I thought it would be interesting to recap the results of those polls to see how the participants responded. Be sure and check out this week's feature article to see the RV poll results.

Until next week, Happy Camping
Mark

Some Interesting RV Poll Results The outcome of any poll depends on several factors like; what type of poll it is, how the questions are worded, who is asking the questions and of course who does and does not participate in the poll...... Read the article

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1:
Use of Credit Most insurance companies use credit scores in their insurance pricing. Insurance companies have data that supports the use of credit, and actually believe one�s credit score is the best predictor of their future losses. Credit usage is not allowed in all states, so it varies from state-to-state and carrier-by-carrier. Your credit score can heavily impact your insurance rates, so improving your credit score may improve the premium you pay. There is much debate about using a person�s credit rating to help determine insurance pricing.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2: LP gas is portable, safe when handled properly and it's very efficient, so it only makes sense that it is used in RVs. LP gas is compressed in a liquid state and stored in containers. Because of the amount of pressure involved the containers are manufactured under very stringent codes. There are two basic types of containers, Department of Transportation (DOT), and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). The DOT containers, more commonly called cylinders are the upright type that you see on Pop Up's, travel trailers, or your BBQ grill. The ASME cylinders are referred to as tanks and are mounted horizontally like the type you would see on a motor home.

Regardless of the type, all LP gas containers are only filled to 80% of their capacity to allow for expansion when the temperature around the container rises. LP gas cylinders are equipped with Overfill Protection Devices or OPD valves to prevent them from being overfilled.

Check out this week's poll: Have you ever spent a night in your RV while in a Wal-mart parking lot? To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

7 Things to Know about Trends in the RV World
The South Texas RV Show began Thursday, giving current and potential owners a look at what's new in the RV world.....

Get Hitched Affordably
When many people think of an RV they picture the behemoths parked outside a football stadium.....

Winnebago Industries Leaders Encouraged Yet Cautious
One of North Iowa's largest employer's is starting to feel the grip of the national recession loosen, but company leaders at Winnebago Industries are remaining cautious........

RV Education 101
is on now on facebook Become a Fan.....

RV Product Savvy with Mark Polk Free short videos

RVing with Mark Polk on Youtube. Over 27free RV Video tips plus product sample clips

Print this page to make your own RV LOGBOOK: You can print off as many as you need to make a book; or, simply keep the records online in a laptop.....

...with Mark
Q. We have a 1999 Starcraft Venture popup which we purchased a year and a half ago. Most of our trips are to the NC coast and as such we have weathered a few storms. On our last trip before retiring the camper for the winter we were at an RV Park in Stella, NC and experienced a fairly wet night and in the morning noticed a lot of water on the inside of the tent material. With this unit being 10 years old, does this mean that the tenting needs to be replaced or might a water repellant treatment do the trick? Thanks

Mark Says:Most pop up fabric is treated with a water repellent when the fabric is made. Over the years, as it is exposed to the elements, the degree of protection decreases. Normally you can retreat the fabric with a water repellent. The important thing is to get a treatment designed for the type of fabric on the pop up. If you have the original owners manuals it will say what the fabric is made of and may offer products that are suitable to use. If you don't have the manuals I would suggest contacting Starcraft to get it straight from the horses mouth.

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2010

RV DVD 6PACKRV Education 101 just made it easier for you to learn about YOUR RV! We took 6 of our individual DVD titles and put them together into a full set for you which is equal to over 5 hours of one on one instruction. You SAVE a significant amount of money with the set discount.

Mark said "After collecting a great deal of feedback from RVers who attend seminars all over the country I determined that live seminar presentations can not always offer numerous and sometimes cumbersome visual aids to effectively get the point across. That was the thought behind our RV video seminar series. Seminars in video format allow me to present valuable information, using detailed graphics. It is the perfect solution to help educate the RV consumer."

sale price: $99.95 Buy Now

16 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

Money Saving DVD Sets Available

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

To contact us with feedback or questions, email to: info@rveducation101.com

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

RV University This Week 1/11/2010

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #48 - January 11, 2010

"Nothing is more terrible than activity without insight.
~ Thomas Calyle, Scottish essayist and historian

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

It's only the second week into the new year and I already can't wait to take a trip in the RV. What I really would like to do is take the RV to Vancouver & Whistler for the 2010 Winter Olympics but it just wasn't in the cards. I really enjoy both the Summer & Winter Olympics, and even though our schedule prevents us from traveling in mid to late February I will watch as much of the Olympics as I can on television.

Another thing you can do when your RV is parked for a couple of months during the winter is attend some RV shows. It's fun to go to RV shows even if you aren't in the market to buy an RV. You get to see all of the new models coming out and there is lots of great RV information available at shows. To read more about RV shows, and to find out when and where the shows are located check out this week's feature article.

Until next week, Happy Camping
Mark

RV Shows, your Wintertime RV Fix In late November we took our last RV camping trip for 2009. We had a great time and when we returned I cleaned the RV, winterized it, and prepared it for storage. When I closed the garage door behind me the reality sank in that there would be no more RV adventures until sometime this coming spring. It�s always a bit depressing to park the RV with no plans to use it for two or three months. It�s sort of like when football season ends, or your favorite television program ends, and you need to wait several months for the next season to begin..... Read the article

Nationally Recognized Speakers Featured at Boston RV and Camping Expo, January 15-18th
John DiPietro, president of ABC/D Marketing, producer of the social media campaign and seminar program noted; �We wanted to bring in speakers that would relate to the passion and enthusiasm of the RV lifestyle enjoyed by our attendees. We are excited to announce that Silvio DiSalvatore, winner of the Great American Road Trip reality show on NBC earlier this year and Don Barone, award-winning outdoor writer for ESPN.COM and Bass, will be presenting at our Expo next Saturday and Sunday.�.....

RV Education 101
is on now on facebook Become a Fan.....

Vancouver RV Parks for 2010 Winter Olympics
350 non-hook up RV sites will be available at Spanish Bank and Jericho Beach Parks from Feb. 10th to March 2nd. There will be potable water available for fill ups, a sewage removal service as well as propane available to purchase . .....

There's an RV show every year in every region of the country!
RV retail shows give you an opportunity to see many makes and models of RVs - at one time and at one place. What better way to comparison-shop for the vehicle that best fits your travel plans and budget? At RV shows, you'll also find dealers and other RV industry experts, who can assist you in finding the right RV. Most attendees currently own an RV..........

Buying an RV?
Check out this dvd promo: "An Introduction to RV's":

Buy Now

Check out this week's poll: Have you ever had a problem with rodent control in your RV? To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1: If you are in a motorhome and are towing a vehicle you may want to disconnect the vehicle in the campground registration parking lot before going to your site. Have someone drive the vehicle in front of you to assist in locating your site.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1: When checking in at a campground and receiving your site: Conduct a site survey. Identify where all campground connections are and where you want the RV located to have access to all connections. Take into consideration where slide outs will be and if there is room to put the awning out. Make sure that there are no low hanging branches or other obstacles that will interfere with the RV.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #3: Batteries should be charged as soon as possible after each period of use or whenever they reach a 70% state of charge or below. The batteries should only be charged in a well ventilated area and keep any sparks and open flames away from a battery being charged. Check the electrolyte levels before and after charging batteries.Warning: For proper charging procedures always follow the battery charger manufacturer instructions. If you are not comfortable performing maintenance on, or working around lead acid batteries, take the RV to an authorized repair center to have battery maintenance done.

RV Product Savvy with Mark Polk Free short videos

RVing with Mark Polk on Youtube. Over 27free RV Video tips plus product sample clips

Print this RV Buying Preference Worksheet: This worksheet can simplify the RV buying process for you by helping to define the RV that fits your individual needs perfectly.

...with Mark
Q. Hello Mark, requesting your opinion on tire pressure. I have a 2006 Freightliner class C with a Gulf Stream Mini Vista Cruiser camper Model 4231. The truck manufacturer specs call for 57 psi on the front and 58 on the rear dual wheels. Spoke to a tire service rep and he recommended I up the pressure to 65 psi on the front and 75 psi on the rear. Recently I noted a spec. sheet hidden inside on of the cupboards and Gulf Stream spec. 80 psi on all the tires. No mention if this is max. or not. Looking at the tires they are Michelin steel belt tires. I just replaced tires because the original were full of side wall cracking. The side wall tire press. indicates max. 80 psi. What tire pressure should I be using. I have tried numerous times to contact Gulf Stream but I never get a response. Is there any contact that you can recommend. I have been also looking for any manuals, electrical manuals but to no avail. The manual that came with the vehicle is a generic book which could include any vehicle but not relevant to this vehicle.

Mark Says:Tire manufacturers publish load & inflation tables that give specific tire pressure for the type and size tires you are running based on how much weight is placed on the tires. The 80 PSI you saw on the tire sidewall is the maximum inflation pressure that should ever be put in the tires.

The only way to know the proper tire pressure is to have the axles and individual wheel positions weighed and compare the weights to the load & inflation table from Michelin.

I am including a link for the load & inflation tables that should be helpful. Locate your tires in the chart and weigh your RV when you get a chance.

Most RV manuals are very generic and that is why we started producing the RV training DVD's. If you are looking for individual component manuals, like for instance a manual on the air conditioner, you can get the brand and model number off of the component and usually find the manual on the Internet.

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2010

RV Buyers Survival Guide E-BoookThe THIRD Edition of the RV Buyers Survival guide. Edition 1 sold out over 10,000 copies in just 18 months and helped thousands of RVers save big on inflated asking prices. The two or so hours of reading will enlighten you to the ins and outs of the RV Buying process. A process who's "insider secrets" have been closely guarded until now. You'll build your confidence by understanding both how to properly shop for an RV, how to negotiate by being able to calculate the dealers actual cost factors, and how to control the sales process. Armed with this information you'll be able to join Bob's swelling ranks of readers who have saved thousands of dollars on their purchases. Many happy readers have said that the "RV Buyers Survival Guide" was the best investment they made in owning an RV.
sale price: $15.95 Buy Now

16 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

Money Saving DVD Sets Available

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

To contact us with feedback or questions, email to: info@rveducation101.com

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

Nationally Recognized Speakers Featured at Boston RV and Camping Expo, January 15-18th

Nationally Recognized Speakers Featured atBoston RV and Camping Expo, January 15-18th

Boston, MA � January 10, 2010 - The New England RV Dealers Association, producers of the Boston RV & Camping Expo, have announced a series of outstanding seminars and presentations that will be highlighted each day of the show at the Bayside Expo Center.

John DiPietro, president of ABC/D Marketing, producer of the social media campaign and seminar program noted; �We wanted to bring in speakers that would relate to the passion and enthusiasm of the RV lifestyle enjoyed by our attendees. We are excited to announce that Silvio DiSalvatore, winner of the Great American Road Trip reality show on NBC earlier this year and Don Barone, award-winning outdoor writer for ESPN.COM and Bass, will be presenting at our Expo next Saturday and Sunday.�

On Saturday January 16 at 2PM, DiSalvatore will entertain the audience with his introduction to the RV lifestyle on national television in front of millions of viewers! DiSalvatore wowed the RVIA audience at the Outlook breakfast in November and has since launched his own RV related web site; www.mrgorving.com

Since signing on to speak at the Boston show, DiSalvatore has been a regular contributor on the show�s Facebook page; www.facebook.com/bostonrvandcampingexpo. He is already developing his own fan base here and he hasn�t even arrived yet!

On Sunday January 17 at 2PM the show will feature award-winning outdoor writer Don Barone, nationally known for his writing style on people that enjoy the outdoors. DiPietro said, �We had to have this guy speak to RVers once we met him. He relates to his readership better than anybody I�ve seen in years.� Barone, an unassuming consummate professional, had the #1 and #3 hit stories on ESPN Outdoors in 2008 and broke the top five again in 2009. He has won 3 Sports Emmys, a Silver Medal in the New York Festival for investigative journalism, four writing awards from the New England Outdoor Writers Association, and has been working in television and writing professionally since 1979. Millions of people have visited his web site; www.donbaroneoutdoors.com , and you won�t want to miss his down-to-earth discussion of hilarious RV stories.

In addition to seminars by DiSavlatore and Barone, DiPietro will be presenting several sessions on social media, Bob Zagami will be present his �First Time Buyers� seminar and Bernie Jwaszewski will present a three-part series each day of the show on everything one should know about Workamping.

Contact information:

Shawn Sheehy, General Counsel
New England RV Dealers Association
781-383-6700
sks@nervda.org

RV University This Week 1/4/2010

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #47 - January 4, 2010

"We will open the book. Its pages are blank.
We are going to put words on them ourselves.
The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day.�
~ Edith Lovejoy Pierce

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

Happy New Year,

I hope everybody had a wonderful Christmas & holiday season and that you have a prosperous new year in 2010. We had a great time visiting with family and taking the last week or so of 2009 off for the most part. It's always exciting when the new year arrives. It's not only a new year, but a new decade and a new camping season is right around the corner too.

We have a lot to celebrate in 2010!

2010 is the RV Centennial. It's amazing to think that RVs & RVing have been alive and well for 100 years in America. Back in 1910 our forefathers had the same ideas that we have today about getting away from it all in our house on wheels. What started as autocamping, by modifying the old Model T with some basic sleeping and eating arrangements, has evolved into today's modern RVs.

The last couple of years have not been good for the RV industry and our economy in general, but that's history now and I'm optimistic that 2010 will be the turning point for all things to get better.

Speaking of the RV industry, be sure and check out this weeks feature article. Last February I wrote an article on my predictions for the future of the RV industry and this week I take a look back to see if those predictions were right or wrong.

Until next week, Happy Camping & Happy New Year
Mark

Update: My Predictions for Future of the RV Industry In February of 2009 I wrote an article titled �My Top 5 Predictions for the Future of the RV Industry�. I thought that since nearly a year has passed this would be a good time to take a look at how my predictions faired..... Read the article

HOW TO READ TIRE WEAR
The way your tires wear is a good indicator of other parts of your car. Abnormal wear patterns are often caused by the need for simple tire maintenance, or for front end alignment. Tires should be inspected at every opportunity; once a week isn't too often. Learning to read the early warning signs of trouble can prevent wear that shortens tire life or indicates the need for having other parts of the car serviced. Tires should be inspected 3 ways. First, visually examine all 4 tires; second, feel the tread by hand to detect wear such as feathering and third, check all 4 tires with a pocket type pressure gauge......

KOA CEO Jim Rogers Featured on Fox Business
Kampgrounds of America CEO Jim Rogers and Airstream President Bob Wheeler were interviewed Tuesday, December 29 on the Fox Business Network. The two were interviewed concerning the rebound of the outdoors industry from the 2009 recession, as well as the prospects for camping and RVing in 2010.....

California initiative seeks higher vehicle fee to help fund parks
California motorists would get free year-round admission to all 278 state-owned beaches and parks under a proposed new ballot initiative, but here's the catch: It would cost them.........

Own a Motorhome? Then here are seven quick reasons you should join FMCA.

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1: When you change an LP gas cylinder there is a possibility you will get air in the gas lines. A good habit to get into is to light the range burners immediately after replacing the cylinder. What this does is help evacuate any air out of the system to make it easier to light the other appliances.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2: Warning: NEVER use the range burners or oven as a source of heat. It is not vented outside and depleted oxygen can cause asphyxiation.

Check out this week's poll: Have you ever used your range burners or oven as a source of heat?To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

Are you concerned with the quality of drinking water in your RV?

Whether you tow a vehicle behind your motorhome or you tow a trailer, we've got you covered:
----

...with Mark
Q. I have a Fleetwood Jamboree Class-C RV which has an EPDM rubber roof which I'm intending to service. This will involve the thorough cleaning of the roof, the treating of the surface using the correct treatment solutions/ materials, sealing around the extrusions and especially on the sides bordering on the RV's walls, and undertaking any minor repairs to the EPDM rubber sheeting. What I'd like to know please: Do you have any literature/ instructions / advice available to DIY people who would like to do a very thorough job so as to prevent rain water from seeping into the RV and causing damage. I live in Africa and as you will appreciate very far from any qualified people who could do this job for me or render assistance.
My vehicle is now 13 years old and the roof has been exposed to the elements most of it's life. I've noticed on the inside that rain water must be penetrating the sides of the RV especially where the wall links with the roof as a result the carpeting covering the ceiling is discoloring and looking a bit shabby. Do you have anything that could help me please???

Mark Says:I would recommend cleaning the roof thoroughly and after it dries completely use a product called Eternabond to seal all of the roof seams. It is like tape, but once applied over the roof seams and sealants it is permanent and will prevent any water from penetrating the seams and sealants.

If there is already water damage present it should be repaired first, unless you are only concerned about additional damage in the future. The website where you can order the product is . HERE

I hope this helps

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2010

Class C Rental / Owner DVD and The RV BOOK Pre-packaged Value SET
A $105.00 Value, for $85.90 INCLUDES:
1) Class C Motor Home 101 - DVD
2) Towing Behind Your Motorhome - DVD
3) Winterizing & Storing your RV - DVD
4) Marks Recommended 10 minute RV Essential Items -DVD
5) The RV Book

RV Education 101 just made it easier for you to learn about YOUR RV! We took our individual matching Class C Motorhome DVD titles PLUS MARKS THE RV BOOK and put them together into a full set for you, which is equal to almost 3 hours of one on one video instruction, plus a book to read. Now, not only does this eliminate the guess work as to which ones should go together, but you also SAVE a significant amount of money with the value set discount. This prepackaged value set includes 4 DVD's plus The RV Book.

After watching this RV DVD library and by reading THE RV BOOK; by RV expert Mark Polk, you will master your own RV experiences. Another great thing is this counts as 1 item, so you only pay $5.95 for S/H!
sale price: $85.90 Buy Now

Motorhome (Class A) DVD and The RV BOOK Pre-packaged Value SET
A $105.00 Value, for $85.90 INCLUDES:
1) Class A Motor Home 101 - DVD
2) Towing Behind Your Motorhome - DVD
3) Winterizing & Storing your RV - DVD
4) Marks Recommended 10 minute RV Essential Items -DVD
5) The RV Book

RV Education 101 just made it easier for you to learn about YOUR RV! We took our individual matching Class A Motorhome DVD titles PLUS MARKS THE RV BOOK and put them together into a full set for you, which is equal to almost 3 hours of one on one video instruction, plus a book to read. Now, not only does this eliminate the guess work as to which ones should go together, but you also SAVE a significant amount of money with the value set discount. This prepackaged value set includes 4 DVD's plus The RV Book.

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel DVD and The RV BOOK Pre-packaged Value SET
A $105.00 Value, for $85.90 INCLUDES:
1) Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel - DVD
2) Trailer Towing, Weights, Hitch Work and Backing - DVD
3) Winterizing & Storing your RV - DVD
4) Marks Recommended 10 minute RV Essential Items -DVD
5) The RV Book

RV Education 101 just made it easier for you to learn about YOUR RV! We took our individual matching Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel DVD titles PLUS MARKS THE RV BOOK and put them together into a full set for you, which is equal to almost 3 hours of one on one video instruction, plus a book to read. Now, not only does this eliminate the guess work as to which ones should go together, but you also SAVE a significant amount of money with the value set discount. This prepackaged value set includes 4 DVD's plus The RV Book.

RV Product Savvy with Mark Polk Free short videos

RVing with Mark Polk on Youtube. Over 27free RV Video tips plus product sample clips

16 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

Money Saving DVD Sets Available

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

To contact us with feedback or questions, email to: info@rveducation101.com

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

RV University This Week 12/21/2009

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #46 - December 21st, 2009

"Creative thinking may mean simply the realization that there's no particular virtue in doing things the way they have always been done.� ~Rudolph Flesch

"With each day comes new strengths and new thoughts"- Eleanor Roosevelt

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

Today is the first official day of winter and there are only four shopping days left until Christmas. I guess I better get out and do some shopping soon! We have family coming to spend Christmas with us and I am looking forward to taking a few days off and basically doing nothing except enjoying the time of year.

Soon it will be 2010 and time to get busy again. We have big plans for next year, but for the next week and a half I just want to relax and watch 2009 become the past.

This week's feature article discusses an important topic for RVers and in general, clean drinking water. Be sure to read the article and watch the video to see what you can do to improve the quality and taste of your water.

Until next week, Merry Christmas & safe travels over the holiday season
Mark

Why Filter your RV Drinking Water? Over the years I have written numerous articles about water filtration, water quality and sanitizing your RV water system. There are lots of reasons to be concerned about the water we drink, especially when it comes to RV�s. When you travel in your RV and stop at different destinations on a regular basis you don�t know anything about the quality of the water you are using or drinking. It seems like every day you hear more and more about what is in the water we drink and how it can impact our health. I have always been an advocate for filtering the water in our RV and I am always on the lookout for the best possible method for filtering water. Read the article

...with Mark
This week features a readers e-mail:

I'm sure you get tons of e-mail and I appreciate how you always answer mine in a timely manner. Granted most of my messages probably are of questionable value but then I don't charge for them either.

Since your RV is parked for the next couple of months, I thought I would tell you a story about winter travel. A couple of winters ago, my wife and I decided to take the 5th wheel to Lubbock, TX to spend Christmas with one of our sons and his family. They lived in the country at the time so we thought it would be handy to just camp in their driveway rather than drive back and forth to a motel in town.

On the trip down it had snowed just before we left home but the roads were clear and dry so away we went. North of Amarillo there is a place where the nice wide four lane with a nice wide median passes very close to a grain elevator on the west side of the road. A little food for thought, a grain elevator makes a great big shadow which leaves a great big sheet of ice for a few hundred feet on the south bound side.

We were traveling about 70 mph with the cruise set. Yeah, I know, a little fast. When I saw the ice it was too late to do much of anything and I sure didn't want to do anything stupid, so I just shut off the cruise control and steered very straight. There may have been some discussion with the Big Guy upstairs also.

Well, we slithered across the ice and stayed pretty well straight and made it to dry pavement again. It just so happened I had a bottle of soda in my right hand during the whole ordeal. As soon as it appeared we would survive my wife reached over and grabbed the bottle from me and said, "You need both hands on the wheel." I didn't feel it was a good time to argue the point, if you get my drift.

The rest of the trip went well, maybe a little slower and we had a nice Christmas with the kids.

Merry Christmas to You and Yours

Mark Says:Great story and I'm glad everything turned out okay. It's happened to me several times in a car over the years, but never towing a trailer or in the motorhome, thank-goodness!

Merry Christmas to you and your family too!
Mark

NASCAR partners with RV resort for themed camping
NASCAR, Morgan RV Resorts and Silver Companies have announced a license to create NASCAR RV Resorts, a new branded concept to bring the sights, sounds and thrills of NASCAR to family camping locations across the country......

Thor Repurchases Stock From The Estate of Wade F. B. Thompson
Thor Industries, Inc. (Thor) announced today that it purchased shares of its common stock from the Estate of Wade F. B. Thompson (the "Estate") in a private transaction.....

RMNP nears 3 million visitor mark for year
Visitation at Colorado's most popular national park is up by more than 2.5 percent over 2008. So far this year, more than 2.93 million people have passed through Rocky Mountain National Park's gates.........

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1: The lead and plastic used to construct batteries can be recycled. More than 97% of all battery lead is recycled. Be sure and recycle your old batteries

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2: LP gas can be measured in weight or in gallons. You may have heard somebody say that the gas cylinders on their travel trailer are 30 lb. cylinders, or they may say their cylinders hold 7 gallons apiece. One gallon of LP gas weighs 4.26 pounds. The typical BBQ grill uses a 20 lb. cylinder, and at 80% full it would hold 3.75 gallons of LP gas.

Check out this week's poll: Have you ever camped in a National or State park in your RV?To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2009

TANDEM Braking SystemYou MUST have Blue Ox or DEMCO baseplate tow fixtures to be able to install the TANDEM Braking system. The TANDEM is an RV Braking System for towed vehicles. Installation is simple, quick, solid and secure. A steel cable connects the brake pedal of the towed vehicle to the TANDEM device, which is fixed by means of safety pins to the towed vehicle's tow bar attachements. When the towing vehicle stops or slows down, the pressure to the lever on the braking system applies a proportional pull on the cable fixed to the brake pedal of the towed vehicle and the brakes apply as needed. When the two get closer to each other as it happens going downhill, brakes are automatically applied without causing any premature wear.

If you don't feel comfortable installing the TANDEM Brake yourself, take it to any authorized RV Dealer for them to install.

sale price: $748.00
Buy Now

RV Product Savvy with Mark Polk Free short videos

RVing with Mark Polk on Youtube. Over 27free RV Video tips plus product sample clips

16 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

Money Saving DVD Sets Available

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

Our goal with RV University This Week is to provide you with helpful information to make all of your RV experiences more enjoyable. I left my position as an RV Sales and F&I manager in 2000 to start my own company, RV Education 101. We produce educational videos, DVDs and e-books on how to use and maintain your RV. The reason I left my job was due to my concern about the lack of educational and safety awareness material available to the RV consumer, in other words, you. We are a small company. My wife Dawn left her position in RV sales to help start the company and is our Sales and Marketing Director. We currently have a 35-foot Class A motor home. We have two boys, Tyler 12 and Josh 18, both avid RVers and two dogs, Gracie and Buck. Gracie is the good one. If you would like to learn more about us and RV Education 101 feel free to visit http://www.rveducation101.com

RV University This Week � Copyright 2009 Mark J. Polk, except where indicated otherwise. All rights reserved worldwide. Reprint only with permission from copyright holder(s). All trademarks are property of their respective owners. All contents provided as is. Advertisers are solely responsible for ad content.

To contact us with feedback or questions, email to: info@rveducation101.com

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

RV Converter Q&A by Mark Polk

RV Converter Q&A by Mark Polk
Just when I thought we thoroughly covered RV electrical systems I get another good question about something I failed to discuss in my previous articles. I received one of these good questions and thought there would be many other RVers who would like to hear the answer.

Question: In one of your previous articles you list the RV converter as drawing 5 amps. Since, I believe, the converter is operating any time you plug into a 120 volt AC system (30 Amp), does this mean that in reality you only have 25 amps to work with (30 minus 5 = 25, and not considering clock draws, etc.)? I am developing an electric amp chart to hang inside a cabinet and I need to resolve this question as this would make a significant difference.

Mark's Answer:
First of all let's talk briefly about what your RV converter does. When you plug your RV into an electrical source, or when you use the onboard generator, the converters job is to reduce 120 volts AC down to 12 volt DC to supply power to all of the 12 volt appliances and accessories in the RV. If you weren't plugged into an electrical source your RV battery(s) would supply the power to all of the 12 volt appliances and accessories in the RV. The converter basically prevents your RV battery(s) from draining when you're plugged in.

There are two types of amperage draw concerning your RV. The AC amps we are using and the DC amps we are using. I'll try to explain. When you plug your RV into an electrical source and use 120 volt appliances like the roof air conditioner, the microwave and a TV you are drawing amps from the available supply at the campground, usually 30 or 50 amps depending on your RV electrical system and the electrical supply you are plugged into. When you're plugged into an electrical source and you use DC appliances and accessories like fans, lights, pumps or the TV antenna booster you are drawing amps from the converter. Are you more confused now than when we started? Let's try wording this a little different.

Let's say you plug your RV into a 30 amp electrical supply and you only use 120 volt appliances. You're using available amps from the 30 amp electrical supply for whatever 120 volt appliances are running, but the converter is drawing almost 0 amps because you're not using any DC accessories. It will use a small amount for items like the LP gas leak detector, clocks or maybe an aisle light, but not enough to really affect the amperage you are plugged into.

Your RV converter is rated for a certain amperage i.e. 30 amps, 45 amps, 55 amps. In other words a 45 amp converter is capable of running 45 amps worth of 12 volt appliances in the RV. When your RV converter is working at its maximum capacity, which in this case is producing 45 amps for 12 volt appliances and accessories, it is drawing around 5 amps out of the 30 amps available from the campground electrical supply.

Let's say you're plugged in and you're using a couple of 12 volt overhead lights (2 amps) and a ceiling fan (4 amps). In this case your converter is drawing very little from the campgrounds 30 amp electrical supply. In another scenario let's say you're using a lot of 12 volt overhead lights (8 amps), you're running the furnace fan (11 amps), water pump (4 amps), 12-volt television (5 amps), range hood fan (2.5 amps), and the battery is being charged by the converter charger (3 amps). Now, when the converter is running close to its full capacity it draws the full 5 amps from the campgrounds 30 amps, leaving you with 25 amps for other 120 volt appliances and accessories. As you can see it's unlikely that all of this would be happening at one time. The bottom line is the converter amperage draw will fluctuate depending on the 12 volt demand placed on it.

Another question I was asked was; I know my converter is also a battery charger so why won't it bring my discharged batteries back to a full charge? RV converters do provide a charge to your RV house batteries, but only a small portion of the converters amperage rating is used for this. Normally 3 to 5 amps, which are not nearly enough to charge batteries that are discharged.

The converter battery charger is designed to keep the house batteries topped off with this trickle charge. Another problem with older RV converters is they charge at a fixed voltage in the range of 13.5 volts. If your batteries are fully charged this can be too much for a float charge and over time it will deplete the water level in the batteries cells. This is why it's important to check the water level in your batteries on a regular basis, especially when you leave the RV plugged in for extended periods of time. You need a three stage charger that can provide a bulk charge then an absorption charge and finally a float charge. Newer RV converters on the market are capable of charging the batteries this way.

Now, to help you out with your amp chart I am including some typical amperage draws for appliances and accessories commonly used in RV's. Keep in mind I'm not an expert on electricity by any stretch of the imagination. This is just a basic guide to assist you in how many amps you are using at any given time. If you need to know exact amperage ratings you can check the data plate on any motors, appliances or electronic equipment you are using. If you can't locate a data plate with this information check the appliance or electronic equipment owner's manual. This information might provide wattage requirements rather than amps. Here are a couple of simple formulas to help you convert some common electrical terms.

Wattage % Volts = Amps
Amps X Volts = Wattage

One other thing to keep in mind is many RV appliances require more amps to start the appliance than they do to run the appliance. A roof air conditioner can draw 16 amps to start, but may only use 13 amps once it is running.

120 Volt AC Amp Ratings:

Appliance or Electronic Equipment Estimated Amps

Air Conditioner (X number of A/C) 12-16 Amps

Blender 5-6 Amps

Coffee Maker 5-8 Amps

Compact Disc Player 1 Amp

Computer (Laptop) 2-3 Amps

Converter 1-5 Amps

Crock Pot 1-2 Amps

Curling Iron <1 Amp

Drill 2-6 Amps

Electric Blanket 0.5-1.5 Amps

Electric Fan 1 Amp

Electric Water Heater 9-13 Amps

Electric Skillet 6-12 Amps

Hair Dryer 5-12 Amps

Iron 5-10 Amps

Light (60 watt % 120V) <1 Amp

Microwave 8-13 Amps

Microwave (Convection Oven) 13 Amps

Refrigerator in AC mode 5-8 Amps

Space Heater 8-13 Amps

Television 1.5-4 Amps

Toaster 7-10 Amps

Vacuum (handheld) 2-6 Amps

VCR 1-2 Amps

Washer/Dryer 14-16Amps

12 Volt DC Amp Ratings:

Appliance or Accessory Estimated Amps

Aisle Light 1 Amp

CO Detector 1 Amp

Fluorescent Light 1-2 Amps

Furnace 10-12 Amps

LP Gas Leak Detector 1 Amp

Overhead lights (Per Bulb) 1 Amp

Porch Light 1 Amp

Power Roof Vent 1.5 Amps

Radio/Stereo 4 Amps

Range Hood (Fan & Light) 2-3 Amps

Refrigerator (LP Gas Mode) 1.5- 2 Amps

Security System 1 Amp

Television (12 volt) 4-5 Amps

TV Antenna Booster <1 Amp

TV Antenna Booster 12 Volt outlet Up to 8 Amps

Variable Speed Ceiling / Vent Fan 4 Amps

VCR Recorder / Player 2 Amps

Water Pump 4 Amp

Hopefully this clears up any confusion on the difference between using amps supplied by the campground electrical source (AC amps), and using amps supplied by the converter (DC Amps).

Happy Camping,

Mark J. Polk

SunnyBrook RV introduces 2010 models

SunnyBrook RV introduces 2010 models
MIDDLEBURY, Ind. -- In a period during which the RV industry has seen its roughest times in decades, SunnyBrook RV considers itself proud to remain as one of the survivors.

"Due to the careful management of production rates, open inventory, financial interests and most important the unequaled loyalty of our dealers, SunnyBrook is able to enjoy the optimism of renewed consumer confidence for 2010," said SunnyBrook President Elvie J Frey, Sr. "We wholeheartedly express our appreciation to our dealer partners for their loyalty and promise to keep providing them with the highest quality towable products in the industry."

SunnyBrook introduced several new products last week during the National RV Trade Show in Louisville, Ky. They include:

Harmony Ultralight Travel Trailers, Fifth Wheels and Toyhaulers

This new ultralight series was first introduced at last years� RVIA show with two floorplans. Frey stated that today SunnyBrook has 10 floorplans in this series and already has another one on the drawing board.

269THX: The first of two ultralight half-ton towable toyhaulers in the Harmony Series. It features an easy-lift low profile loading ramp, gel-coat fiberglass exterior, diamond plate ground effects, pillowtop queen bed and standard aluminum wheels. Options include a 19-inch LCD TV, generator tray, pull down rear screen and electric lift sofa bed.

281FWRLS: Weighing in at under 7,000 pounds, this first Harmony ultralight fifth wheel has loads of features typically found in high profile, luxury units costing tens of thousands more, said Frey. Features include gel coat fiberglass, standard aluminum rims, full extension drawer guides, hidden hinges, pillow top mattress and 21-inch range/oven. Available with oak or white interior woodwork and three interior decors, this new entry into the half ton towable fifth wheel market is going to be a smash hit for SunnyBrook, said Frey.

Edgewater Conventional Framed Travel Trailers

279RBE: New to The Edgewater series is the 279RBE floorplan. This unit features an enourmous rear bath with loads of wardrobe space and is appointed in the newest golden rod interior decor.

Sunset Creek Aluminum Framed Travel Trailers

281RO: The newest addition to the Sunset Creek lineup is the 281RO. This floorplan is a variation of SunnyBrook's popular 279RB. The 281RO has an exterior kitchen which is normally found on bunk models. "We have had numerous requests for an exterior kitchen on a �mom and pop� unit and the results are sure to be received well," said Frey.

The exterior kitchen features a swing out two-burner range, 4-cubic-foot electric refrigerator, self-contained sink and plenty of storage including an oversized drawer with full extension ball bearing guides. The exterior kitchen can also be optioned on the company's No. 1 selling 298BH floorplan. This unit is also featuring a new stainless steel EZ set entertainment shelf.

For more information, contact Frey at 260-463-1396

Source: SunnyBrook press release

RV University This Week 12/14/2009

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #45 - December 14th, 2009

"Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty.
Anyone who keeps learning stays young.
The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young.�
~Henry Ford

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

With just 11 days left before Christmas, my wife Dawn, asked me to give her my RV Christmas wish list. Now, when it comes to the RV my wish list can get pretty expensive, sort of like champagne taste on a beer budget. Quite honestly, I have been extremely fortunate to outfit our RV with some really great equipment and gadgets over the years, so there�s not a lot left to wish for.

I think just having the RV and a little discretionary money to be able to use and enjoy it is a wish come true. Having the time to really use it, as much as we would like to, is another matter. Even though we can�t take 2-month long trips in the RV right now, our RV is our weekend getaway, a summer beach house, a cross-country road trip, a mountain retreat, a guest house for friends & family, a 2-week summer vacation, my hunting and fishing lodge and whatever else we want it to be.

We have memories that will last a lifetime. Memories from trips we took in our RV and plans for many more memorable RV trips in the future. What else could you wish for? Well� for the material side of our human nature, I guess it would be nice to have a brand new hi tech GPS to replace the one in the RV that quit working several months ago (hint-hint Dawn).

I will continue to tinker, modify and add new equipment to the RV, but my real Christmas wish list is that we stay happy and healthy so we can continue exploring all of the wonderful places still left to see in our RV.

Until next week happy camping & safe travels
Mark

RV Converters: Just when I thought we thoroughly covered RV electrical systems I get another good question about something I failed to discuss in my previous articles. I received one of these good questions and thought there would be many other RVers who would like to hear the answer. Read the article

...with Mark
Q:Hi Mark, I Have enriched my knowledge greatly reading your newsletters and watching your videos, but I just want to submit the following to make sure I understand correctly.

We recently traded up to a Class A with lots of new options that our older Class C did not have, including the battery disconnect buttons.

I keep the auxiliary batteries in the MH during outside winter storage so I can run the generator monthly. If I understand correctly, in between my monthly generator charging I should turn the auxiliary battery button to the off position. In doing so, this would stop the draw of electricity from such items as the carbon monoxide and LP gas monitors, storage monitor panel, and other things that may draw off the aux. batteries, correct? What about the main battery on/off switch? I would assume that I can leave this on as there should be little draw on it. But I wanted to make sure. During our cold Washington State months I also plug the MH into my 30 amp box once a month for 24 hours to charge the batteries. I have seen your short video on the battery charging units, but I am still reading and learning about them.

I know you have answered many questions like mine, I just wanted to have the assurance that I am doing the correct procedure with the batteries.

Mark Says:My general rule for battery disconnects is that when the unit is in storage both the auxiliary and main disconnects are in the off position. Some RV's have clocks and other various devices that can draw from the starting battery too if the switch is left on.

In extremely cold temperatures the batteries need to be fully charged to prevent freezing and other problems from occurring. Plugging it in once a month for 24 hours should be sufficient to keep the batteries charged, but I would check them every now and then with a multimeter to make sure they are in a fully charged state.

I personally use a product called the battery minder when the RV is stored because it also conditions the batteries in addition to charging them. This sort of breaks down any sulfation build up on the plates and extends the life of the batteries.

I would also continue to start and run the generator on a monthly basis as you mentioned. Try to run it with at least a 1/2 rated load and exercise it for an hour or two each month.

I hope this answers your questions
Have a Merry Christmas
Mark

Check out this week's poll: Have you ever dry camped in your RV? (camping without hookups)To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

RVing Great Alternative to Expensive Hotel Lodging at Olympics
As Vancouver prepares to welcome the world for the 2010 Olympics and boasts sold out hotel rooms and exorbitant lodging rates, Go RVing Canada reports that RV rentals and campgrounds are still an available and much more affordable option for visitors.....

SunnyBrook RV introduces 2010 models
In a period during which the RV industry has seen its roughest times in decades, SunnyBrook RV considers itself proud to remain as one of the survivors.....

Internet scam traced to Thousand Oaks
Buyers were attempting to purchase vehicles online. Police said (suspect) had buyers interested in a recreational vehicle and a BMW sedan after he posted their photographs online........

The RV Industry celebrates 100 years of an American Tradition.
Take a look at the history of recreation vehicles in the U.S.

An interesting post on Youtube:
During my 6 week "Wii Fit Experiment"
I drove across the country for 2 weeks,
during which I still used Wii Fit to workout everyday.

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1:
How much power can you use before you start tripping breakers? If your RV has a 30-amp service there is a simple formula you can use to calculate how much power you are using: 30-amps X 120-volts = 3,600 watts. You can use up to 3,600 watts if you are plugged into a 30-amp outlet. Here are a few examples estimating how many watts some common appliances and equipment use. You can usually find the wattage requirements on the label of the appliance.

Air conditioner = 1,680 watts
TV = 300 watts
Microwave = 1,500 watts
Portable heater = 1,400 watts
Laptop = 360 watts
Radio = 200 watts
Toaster = 1,200 watts

You can see how quickly the power adds up. If you were running the air conditioner and you try to use a microwave or toaster and any other appliances, a breaker will probably trip. There will be many times that you will need to turn one appliance off so you can use another one.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2:
Properly loading Your Pop-Up The way that you load your pop-up, and distribute the load will have a direct affect on how well it will tow. If you load too much weight in front of the pop-ups axle you increase the tongue weight and in some cases can affect the steering and handling of the tow vehicle. The opposite is true if you load too much weight behind the axle, taking weight off of the tongue, can result in trailer sway. Loading too much weight on one side of the axle can result in premature tire failure. Many of today�s pop-ups offer a large storage compartment in the front. If yours has this storage feature it was the manufacturer�s intent for a certain amount of weight to be added to increase the Tongue Weight of the pop-up somewhat. Check your owner�s manual for the manufacturer�s recommendations. It is easy to take advantage of these large spaces, and can lead to poor weight distribution and overloading one area of the pop-up.

RV Product Savvy with Mark Polk Free short videos

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2009
GREAT RV CHRISTMAS GIFTS or Stocking Stuffers!!!!

Our DVDs are on sale for the Christmas holiday season thru 20 December.
NOTE: Make sure you order by 15 December if you want it in time for Christmas!!!! These DVD sets make a great stocking stuffer for your favorite RVer.....So hurry now for some great RV Education at a great price!

Money Saving DVD Sets Available:
Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

Single DVDs:
An Introduction to RV's
Drive Your Motorhome Like a Pro
RV Awning Use, Care and Accessories
RV Safety Features, Tips and Tricks
Pop Up 101
Travel Trailer 101
Class A Motor Home 101
Class C Rental / Owner
Winterizing & Storing your RV
EZ RV Add Ons and Must Have RV Products
Trailer Towing, Weights, Hitch Work & Backing
Motorhome Towing
RV Campground Basics
Marks Recommended 10 minute RV Essential Items
Deep Cycle Battery Care & Maintenance for RV's and Boats
RV Care and Maintenance

RVing with Mark Polk on Youtube. Over 27free RV Video tips plus product sample clips

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

Our goal with RV University This Week is to provide you with helpful information to make all of your RV experiences more enjoyable. I left my position as an RV Sales and F&I manager in 2000 to start my own company, RV Education 101. We produce educational videos, DVDs and e-books on how to use and maintain your RV. The reason I left my job was due to my concern about the lack of educational and safety awareness material available to the RV consumer, in other words, you. We are a small company. My wife Dawn left her position in RV sales to help start the company and is our Sales and Marketing Director. We currently have a 35-foot Class A motor home. We have two boys, Tyler 12 and Josh 18, both avid RVers and two dogs, Gracie and Buck. Gracie is the good one. If you would like to learn more about us and RV Education 101 feel free to visit http://www.rveducation101.com

To contact us with feedback or questions, email to: info@rveducation101.com

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

RV University This Week 12/07/2009

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #44 - December 7th, 2009

"I find that a great part of the information I have was acquired by looking up something and finding something else on the way.�
~Franklin P. Adams

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

Well the RV is tucked away for a couple of months of storage. It's all cleaned up, the batteries are fully charged and the fuel system is protected with a fuel stabilizer. The only thing left to do is winterize the water system. The temperature is expected to dip below freezing for the first time this year (in this part of the country) later this week, so I will winterize the water system in the next day or two. It's not very often where the temperature here drops below freezing and stays there for extended periods of time, but it can happen.

This week's feature article is about inspecting your RV for water leaks and water damage. If you store your RV outside it's important that you perform these inspections on a routine basis and especially prior to storage. Water can do lots of damage to your RV and it can be expensive to repair. It's like Benjamin Franklin said, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

Until next week happy camping & safe travels
Mark

Inspecting your RV for Water Damage I received a question from a concerned RVer the other day that went something like this; �My neighbor just paid an expensive repair bill for water damage on his RV and I would like to know what I can do to prevent this same thing from happening to me?�. Read the article

Check out this week's poll: On RV maintenanceTo participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1:
Cleaning an Acrylic Awning Fabric To prevent dirt from imbedding into the woven fabric you should simply hose the fabric off on a monthly basis. If you ever store the fabric when it�s wet, unroll it as soon as possible and allow it to thoroughly dry before storing it again. This is especially true for vinyl fabrics, to help prevent mildew.
Eventually the awning fabric will require a thorough cleaning. For more difficult stains, mildew, or cleaning I use a commercial RV awning cleaner. If it�s an acrylic fabric, spray the cleaner thoroughly on the awning fabric, roll it up and let it sit for several minutes. This helps to distribute the cleaner over the entire surface of the awning fabric and allows the cleaner time to work. Open the awning and thoroughly rinse both sides of the fabric. Avoid scrubbing acrylic awning fabric. Scrubbing can remove the water retardant finish. For stubborn stains blot the cleaner on the fabric with a sponge or soft cloth.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2:
Cleaning a Vinyl Awning Fabric Vinyl awning fabric is mildew resistant, but not necessarily mildew proof. Mildew can form on the dirt and dust that collects on the fabric. It will be worse in high temperatures, humidity and if the fabric is stored when it is wet. Apply the awning cleaner in the same fashion, roll it up and let it sit for several minutes. Open the awning and thoroughly rinse both sides of the fabric. To clean mildew or stains it may be necessary to scrub a vinyl fabric with a soft bristle brush before rinsing.

Note: Never use oil based or abrasive cleaners on awning fabrics. Clean and thoroughly rinse both sides of the awning fabric. Carefully follow all awning and cleaner manufacturer directions for the type of fabric you have.

The Fleetwood RV Legacy Rolls On at the RVIA Industry Show in Louisville, Kentucky
Fleetwood will be unveiling its brand-new 2010 Encounter crossover motor home, which features the sleeping capacity and value of a Class C motor home along with the space and storage capacity of a Class A motor home.....

Juveniles under investigation at local RV park
Apparently the teenagers had accompanied the grandparents to the resort. However, the grandparents were apparently unaware of their grandsons� actions........

Forest Service to eliminate Senior and Disabled camping discounts
The U.S. Forest Service has announced it plans to eliminate the 50% discount at National Forest campgrounds that has traditionally been available to holders of lifetime Senior and Access (permanent disability) passes.......

Jayco in fuel cell alliance for recreational vehicles
SFC Smart Fuel Cell in Germany has established a joint research and market development alliance with US-based recreational vehicles maker Jayco, to study the feasibility of the utilization of EFOY fuel cell technology in RVs in North America....

RV Product Savvy with Mark Polk Free short videos

...with Mark
Q. We have a 34 ft A Class gas motorhome. I'm letting my brother and sister-in-law use it for a few months. They are staying in it full time at one campground from this past Oct. until next June. Is there anything I need to do to keep it in good working order? Can I just let it sit or do I need to find times to operate the slide out, jacks and drive it a few miles to keep it working? I know normally you need to do this each month but you said in your latest article that you were going to put your RV up for a couple months and I was wondering if you were going to do anything with it during that time. Any information you could share would be greatly appreciated.

Mark Says:

I wrote an article on this subject

It will give you a good idea of what to do while it sits in one place for an extended period of time.

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2009
GREAT RV CHRISTMAS GIFTS or Stocking Stuffers!!!!

Money Saving DVD Sets Available:
Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

RVing with Mark Polk on Youtube. Over 27free RV Video tips plus product sample clips

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

Our goal with RV University This Week is to provide you with helpful information to make all of your RV experiences more enjoyable. I left my position as an RV Sales and F&I manager in 2000 to start my own company, RV Education 101. We produce educational videos, DVDs and e-books on how to use and maintain your RV. The reason I left my job was due to my concern about the lack of educational and safety awareness material available to the RV consumer, in other words, you. We are a small company. My wife Dawn left her position in RV sales to help start the company and is our Sales and Marketing Director. We currently have a 35-foot Class A motor home. We have two boys, Tyler 12 and Josh 18, both avid RVers and two dogs, Gracie and Buck. Gracie is the good one. If you would like to learn more about us and RV Education 101 feel free to visit http://www.rveducation101.com

To contact us with feedback or questions, email to: info@rveducation101.com

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

Dead RV Batteries! By Mark Polk

Dead RV Batteries! By Mark Polk
The topic of RV batteries seems to come up a lot among RVers, and there is good reason for it. Did you know the average life for RV batteries with limited battery care and maintenance is only 2 to 3 years, and that 85% of all 12-volt batteries manufactured die before they should? That can get expensive, replacing two or more deep cycle batteries at a time.

If you really think about it it�s not just RVers who have to deal with battery problems; if you have a riding lawnmower, a motorcycle, a golf cart, an automobile, a boat or an RV you have probably experienced problems with batteries at one time or another.

Some of the reasons for these battery problems are undercharging, overcharging, not recharging a discharged battery in a timely manner, lack of maintenance, and a lack of understanding what is required to properly maintain batteries.

The #1 cause of battery failure is a condition called sulfation. When a battery is improperly charged, overcharged or undercharged, or allowed to self discharge small crystals of sulfuric acid from the battery�s electrolyte start to form on the charge plates. Over time this sulfate material cannot be converted back into active plate material and the battery is ruined.

This also occurs when a battery remains discharged for an extended period of time. These crystals act as a barrier, stopping the battery from ever accepting a full charge again regardless of how long you charge the battery. Once this happens, the power and longevity of the battery is severely reduced and your battery becomes one of the 85% that die before it should. Sulfation begins when a battery�s state of charge drops below 80%, or 12.4 volts.

I mentioned a moment ago that overcharging was one reason for batteries dying early. This is a common problem with RV�s. The RV converter has a built in battery charger and most owners are under the impression that if you leave the RV plugged in when it is being stored it will keep the batteries topped off. Keeping the batteries topped off is extremely important, but the problem is many RV converter chargers provide a constant charge of about 13.5 volts which is too high for fully charged batteries. When this happens the electrolyte is boiled off resulting in an early death for the batteries.

Another problem is not charging the batteries at all when the RV is in short or long term storage or not recharging a discharged battery in a timely manner and letting it sit in that condition for extended periods of time. Both of these problems result in early battery death too.

Even for someone with a decent understanding of batteries and battery maintenance I had a few batteries that became statistics in the past. Then I discovered a way to prevent all of these battery related problems for good. It was a product that charges, maintains and conditions the batteries.

There are a few of these products on the market. The one I use is called The Battery Minder. What I mean by conditioning the battery is that the manufacturer of The Battery Minder has developed a simple but extremely effective circuitry that can safely dissolve the sulfation on the plates and restore much, if not all of the lost power. The reason The Battery Minder works so well is because it not only charges the battery, it maintains and desulfates the battery and will never overcharge the battery.

I�m not saying that you will never have to check the water levels or routinely inspect your batteries again, but this product will simplify your battery maintenance and extend the life of your batteries. It can even reverse sulfation on batteries that are already affected by this condition, if caught in time. It�s not very often that I endorse a product but The Battery Minder is one that I have been using for many years now, and through using it I have seen proven results.

When I�m not using the RV I hook the battery minder up and let it go. Through proper charging and maintenance you can easily double the life expectancy of your RV batteries.

If you would like to learn more about your deep cycle batteries check out our Deep Cycle Batteries DVD

To learn more about how The Battery Minder works check out this video.

Happy Camping,
Mark Polk

RV Education 101
RV University

Copyright 2009

RV University This Week 11/30/2009

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #43 - November 30, 2009

RV Product Savvy with Mark Polk Free short videos

"Why I travel: to learn and grow, to challenge myself, stretch my limits and foster an appreciation of both the world at large and the chair waiting in front of the woodstove back home.�
~Tim Patterson

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

I hope everybody had a great Thanksgiving. We did, but getting there and back wasn't so fun - at least for me the driver anyway! Dawn & the kids (our 2 sons and our niece) watched movies, played x-box, ate and napped while I slowly trudged along in the holiday traffic. AAA said that over 40 million travelers would be on the roads and highways over the holiday; I think 35 million of them were heading north on I-95 last Wednesday. It took about 3 hours longer than usual to make our trek north, but once there it is always nice to have the RV with us. With a house full of relatives and friends it's great to have our own home on wheels and our own bed to sleep in. It works out well with our 2 dogs too, something I'm sure my mom appreciates with her 2 dogs under foot in the house already.

With no RV trips planned in the immediate future we will prep the motorhome for a couple of months of storage and look forward to planning next year's camping trips. One trip I am already aware of is to my nephews wedding, which will take us from North Carolina to Washington state. We plan to take our time and enjoy many of the sites along the way. But first we will enjoy the Christmas holiday season and see what's in store for us with the new year.

Speaking of Christmas, from now until December 20th all of our single DVD's are on sale for $19.95. They make great stocking stuffers for the RVer on your Christmas list, and our already deeply discounted DVD box sets make great gift ideas too.

Until next week happy camping & safe travels
Mark

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2009
GREAT RV CHRISTMAS GIFTS or Stocking Stuffers!!!!

Money Saving DVD Sets Available:
Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

Testing your RV Battery State of Charge When you put your RV in storage the batteries lose their charge over time, not to mention the parasitic loads that can drain RV batteries during storage. You should test the state of charge every month and charge any battery that is at or below an 80% state of charge. Read the article

Check out this week's poll: "How many years has your original RV Coach battery lasted?"To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1:
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) is the maximum permissible weight of thetow vehicle and trailer combined when both are fully loaded for travel. GCWR alsoapplies to a motor home towing a vehicle or trailer behind it. GCWR minus GVWRrepresents the allowable weight for the towed vehicle. Note: The hitch receivermounted on the towing vehicle must be rated for this amount of weight. If it is ratedfor less, then that is the maximum amount you can tow.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2:
Valve Extenders: If you have dual wheels you will want to add extension hoses to thevalve stems to make the job of checking tire pressure easier. A word of caution, if youadd extension hoses you will want to replace the rubber valve stems with all steel valvestems. The added weight of the extension hoses can cause rubber stems to leak airresulting in under inflation.

Couple can only watch as train destroys RV
Into every motorist's life, there comes a moment when the paved road turns unexpectedly to dirt, streetlights give way to starlight, and regardless of where you thought you were going, where you have arrived is the middle of nowhere.........

Report shows that camping is on the rise
If you spent any time camping this summer and fall, you weren't alone......

Judge orders liquidation of Country Coach
The CEO of the bankrupt RV company is barred from the site awaiting further legal developments....

...with Mark
Q. You may already be aware of this but I was a little surprised when I read it. Go to: discounttire.comAccording to this the speed rating for all "ST" tires is 65 mph. I'm wondering if this is accurate? If it is I'm guilty of running my trailer tires at and sometimes over their speed rating on a regular basis.

Mark Says:

Actually trailer tires are not tested for high speed ratings like passenger car tires, but ST tires are all lumped together and said to be rated at 65 mph. The concern with this is that once you exceed the 65 mph the excess heat generated will decrease the load rating of the tire as well. If the trailer is already at, or close to, the GVWR and you exceed 65 mph the tires can't handle the same load amount.

On the other hand if the trailer is significantly under the GVWR it isn't as serious of a problem. You can also increase the air pressure to offset the speed as long as you don't exceed the max pressure indicated on the tires sidewall. Other people choose to change out tires with LT tires with the same load ratings as the ST tires. These tires do have speed ratings.

But in reality 65 mph is probably a fast enough speed to travel at, even though I too have been guilty of exceeding 65 mph once in a while.

Here is an article you might enjoy about ST tires

RVing with Mark Polk on Youtube. Over 27free RV Video tips plus product sample clips

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

Our goal with RV University This Week is to provide you with helpful information to make all of your RV experiences more enjoyable. I left my position as an RV Sales and F&I manager in 2000 to start my own company, RV Education 101. We produce educational videos, DVDs and e-books on how to use and maintain your RV. The reason I left my job was due to my concern about the lack of educational and safety awareness material available to the RV consumer, in other words, you. We are a small company. My wife Dawn left her position in RV sales to help start the company and is our Sales and Marketing Director. We currently have a 35-foot Class A motor home. We have two boys, Tyler 12 and Josh 18, both avid RVers and two dogs, Gracie and Buck. Gracie is the good one. If you would like to learn more about us and RV Education 101 feel free to visit http://www.rveducation101.com

To contact us with feedback or questions, email to: info@rveducation101.com

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615

RV EDUCATION 101 CHRISTMAS SALE

GREAT RV CHRISTMAS GIFTS or Stocking Stuffers!!!!

Money Saving DVD Sets Available:
Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

2010 Update, Let�s Talk � Ton Trucks

Back in 2007, when the 2008 year model � ton trucks were being introduced, I wrote an article about the tow ratings Ford was advertising at the time. To sum the article up, Ford advertised that its F-150 was capable of towing 11,000 pounds. Now, for someone with some experience towing trailers I found this claim difficult to believe. After some research I discovered that in 2004, 2005 and 2006 the highest tow rating for an F-150 was 9,900 pounds. In August of 2006 Ford announced the 2007 F-150 was capable of towing 10,500, and in January 2007 the tow capacity was increased to 11,000 pounds. According to the commercial the only difference between these trucks, to justify this increase, was a fully boxed frame.

I also found it interesting that this new, higher tow rating came out shortly after Toyota advertised a tow rating of 10,800 for its � ton Tundra. At the time I used a simple formula in an effort to verify the advertised tow ratings. If you take the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) minus the vehicle curb weight (the actual weight of the truck, less passengers and cargo) we know roughly how much weight the truck can tow.

Note: In my example I used the curb weight listed by the vehicle manufacturer at the time.

The Toyota Tundra had a GCWR of 16,000 pounds, minus the curb weight of 5,200 = 10,800 pounds, which was the advertised tow rating of the Tundra at the time. The Ford F-150 had a new GCWR of 15,800 minus the curb weight of 5,125 = 10,675 pounds, which is 325 pounds less than the advertised 11,000 pound tow rating at the time. Things didn�t add up! And I didn�t understand how the truck�s GCWR increased from 15,300 to 15,800 pounds with little or no changes to the truck. Even with the higher GCWR the truck could not tow 11,000 pounds, at least not mathematically.

I have owned Dodge trucks for many years, and because I tow trailers quite often my last two Dodge trucks have been � ton models. Both trucks were short wheelbase, 4-wheel drive, 5.7 liter, 2500 series trucks with 8,800 pound tow ratings. The last travel trailer I owned weighed in at 7,300 pounds when it was loaded, and although my � ton truck could tow it I wasn�t always comfortable with the way it performed. So naturally when a � truck was advertised with a 1-ton plus higher rating than my � ton truck it raised a red flag in my mind.

At the conclusion of my first article I asked, �At this rate what will happen with tow ratings by 2010?� Well the 2010 models are coming out, so let�s take a look at what�s happening with � ton truck tow ratings.

You can read my first article in its entirety.

I should probably begin this article when Edmunds Inside Line conducted a 2009 Full-Size Pickup Truck Comparison Test (Chevy Silverado vs. Dodge Ram vs. Ford F-150 vs. Toyota Tundra).

Of course the area of the testing I was most concerned about for this article was the tow test.

The following are excerpts from Edmunds website:

1) We added another task to our tow-test regimen this time. We always test trucks against their claimed capacity, ballasting each rig to a similar percentage of its particular Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR). But this produces different trailer weights for each combatant, and it confuses some readers. So we added a second test: a fixed-weight face-off in which each truck pulled an identical trailer up our test mountain.

2) And let's not forget the trailers these trucks pulled. Our Fleetwood Prowler 230 RKS is a 29-foot camper that weighs 6,280 pounds with dry tanks. We also had a Fleetwood Backpack 210 FQ, a 3,880-pound unit that's around 23 feet long. All the trucks pulled the heavier Prowler (ballasted to an even 6,500 pounds) in the fixed-weight test. Afterwards, trailers and ballast were manipulated to burden each truck to 80 percent of its GCWR.

3) 4th Place: 2009 Ford F-150 Lariat SuperCrew 4x4

Perhaps it's optimized for towing, we theorized. A mere 6,500-pound trailer should be a minor annoyance for a truck with an 11,200-pound tow rating, right? Well, it didn't work out that way. Simply put, the Ford got beaten on our 11.5-mile test grade, coming in dead last by 27 seconds in a test that should have stressed it least. It was the only truck to drop below 50 mph, sagging to 47.8 mph at one point, and it spent the most time at wide-open throttle. None of this should be a surprise. Physics suggests that a tepid 5.4-liter V8 that makes 310 hp (in the heaviest truck, no less) should not be able to out-tow others that boast 380 hp and up. Physics is right. Furthermore, the 3.73:1 axle ratio that's needed to generate the advertised tow rating drastically affects every day fuel economy. Our unburdened F-150 achieved 12.6 mpg, well below the window sticker ratings of 14 mpg city and 18 mpg highway (which were achieved with the standard 3.55:1 ratio). This 2009 Ford F-150 is a nice truck in many ways, but it's clearly time for a new engine. The 5.4-liter V8 is simply being asked to do too much.

Read the entire Tow Test Comparison here

I find it interesting that the Ford truck came in last place in the tow test despite boasting the highest tow capacity of the four trucks tested. I also find it interesting that the Ford had the lowest horsepower and torque ratings, but claimed to have the highest tow rating.

If the � Ford, rated to tow 11,200 pounds, finished last in all of the tow test categories while towing a 6,500 pound trailer what would the results be when you add 4,700 more pounds to the trailer? I personally think this tow rating is inflated beyond a weight that is safe for the average consumer to ever consider towing, with any � ton truck. If you advertise an 11,200 pound tow rating somebody is going to put it to the test and just thinking about it makes me nervous.

Edmunds summed it up like this: Those Ford and Dodge tow ratings never made sense to us on paper, chiefly because the Ram's 5.7-liter V8 makes 390 horsepower and 407 lb-ft of torque, while the F-150's 5.4-liter aging mill makes but 310 horses and 365 lb-ft of torque.

Now let�s take a look at what 2010 has to offer for � ton truck tow ratings.

I was a little disappointed to see that the 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 tow rating was bumped up 1,500 pounds over the 2009 model with no real changes to the truck itself. The new Gross Combined Weight Rating of 15,500 pounds increases the Ram�s tow rating to 9,100. Of course the truck must be configured properly to achieve this tow rating. According to Edmunds some of the reason for the increase is because the Ram easily outperformed other trucks with much higher tow ratings when Edmunds conducted its 4-way truck comparison test.

Now the � ton Ram has a higher tow rating than my � ton Ram. I don�t necessarily agree with this new updated capacity, but I will say 9,100 pounds is more believable than Ford�s advertised 11,200 pound rating.

Speaking of Ford, what does 2010 have in store for Ford � ton tow ratings? Whereas only one � ton model of 56 configurations available in 2008 claimed to be capable of safely towing 11,000 pounds; in 2010 Ford has ten � ton models with ratings of 11,000 pounds or more.

I personally disagree when a manufacturer claims that its � ton version of a truck with a 5.4L engine and 3.73 axle ratio can safely tow a 5 � ton trailer down the road. The 2010 model engine is 310 horsepower @ 5,000 RPMs and produces 390 lbs.-ft. of torque at 3,500 RPMs. The only time you will achieve this peak horsepower rating is when the truck is running at 5,000 RPM�s.

The formula used to convert torque to horsepower is to multiply torque by RPM / 5,252. If the engine produces 390 lbs.-ft. of torque @ 3,500 RPM this translates to about 260 HP, but how often do you drive at 3,500 RPMs? I couldn�t find any charts depicting the torque curve for this 5.4L Ford engine, but in reality at a lower RPM range it will be towing 11,000 pounds at much lower torque and horsepower ratings.

Tow ratings, weight terminology and vehicle ratings have always been difficult to sift through and understand. In my opinion to use the strategy of inflating � ton truck tow ratings, to 5 � tons, in an effort to sell trucks is an injustice to the consumer. The consumer needs to be properly educated to safely tow heavy trailers, not misled by vehicle manufacturers.

Towing 11,000 pounds is better left to the larger, beefier � ton and 1 ton trucks that manufacturers build. I just don�t get why they see it necessary to burden their � ton trucks with these kinds of hefty tow ratings.

I am a product of the sixties and very well understand vehicle manufacturers competing for the consumers business. Chevy and Ford had 427 engines, so Dodge came out with a 426 HEMI to stay competitive. Forty some years later Toyota comes out with a � ton truck they claim can tow 10,800 pounds and overnight a � ton Ford can miraculously tow 11,000 pounds. The � ton Dodge, with a lower tow rating, beats the Ford up in a comparison test, so Dodge increases its rating by 1,500 pounds. Come on guys!

The muscle car era is over and today�s more sophisticated buyer wants the truth. One of these manufacturers should stop being so competitive to be number one in every category and try the honest approach for once. Advertise that your � ton truck lineup can safely and efficiently tow a 6 or 7 thousand pound trailer and advise the consumer to look into your � ton and 1 ton lineup if they are towing more weight than that. You might be surprised at how receptive the trailer towing buyer is to this honest approach.

Happy & Safe Towing,
Mark Polk
RV Education 101
RV University

RV University This Week 11/23/2009

RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101
U of RV Journal #42 - November 23, 2009

RV Product Savvy with Mark Polk Free short videos

"As we express our gratitude,
we must never forget that the highest appreciation
is not to utter words, but to live by them.�
~John Fitzgerald Kennedy

BY MARK

Hi Everybody,

We leave early Wednesday morning on our RV Thanksgiving trip. Thanksgiving is perhaps my favorite holiday of the year. Even though it will be a short trip I am looking forward to a few days in the RV, time with family and of course Thanksgiving day dinner. I also like the leftover turkey the next few days. I told one of our southern neighbors that a favorite of mine is to take leftover pieces of hot turkey and gravy and put it on top of Belgium waffles the morning after Thanksgiving. They thought I was absolutely crazy, but I told them not to discount it until they have tried it.

I'm sure most of you have heard of, or know what Twitter is by now. When a business uses Twitter it can let people who follow the business keep up with current events as the events happen. The catch is you only have 140 characters to get the message across. It might be current news, a new product release or a helpful bit of information the business wants to pass on. Anything you deem worthy of writing about.

I always say better late than never. We just started a Twitter account and if you would like, you can
It's kind of like a short and sweet daily update where we can pass on some helpful and fun RV information to you.

Over the years I have worked closely with a company called MaxxAir Vent Corporation. MaxxAir designs and manufacturers the most effective RV ventilation products available on the market. They have sold over 2 million of their original MaxxAir vent cover and the reason is because it works so well. We personally use MaxxAir products on our RV and recently we produced some product videos to demonstrate the ease of use and installation of MaxxAirs RV ventilation products. See below to view the first 3 product videos.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday,

Until next week happy camping & safe travels
Mark

2010 Update, Let�s Talk � Ton Trucks Back in 2007, when the 2008 year model � ton trucks were being introduced, I wrote an article about the tow ratings Ford was advertising at the time. To sum the article up, Ford advertised that its F-150 was capable of towing 11,000 pounds. Now, for someone with some experience towing trailers I found this claim difficult to believe. After some research I discovered that in 2004, 2005 and 2006 the highest tow rating for an F-150 was 9,900 pounds. In August of 2006 Ford announced the 2007 F-150 was capable of towing 10,500, and in January 2007 the tow capacity was increased to 11,000 pounds. According to the commercial the only difference between these trucks, to justify this increase, was a fully boxed frame.... Read the article

RV industry no longer running on empty, says MSNBC:
The wheels are slowly turning again for the RV industry here, the mainstay of this region�s economy. Sales are beginning to pick up again. RV makers are cautiously hiring back some of the workers they furloughed during the downturn.........

After years of declining numbers, snowbirds are back.
After three consecutive down years, the Valley appears to be attracting more snowbirds, a welcome change amid a struggling economy. .....

Eco Cars:
Harmony amphibious RV is a green ride for land and water....

Check out this week's poll: "When people stay overnight while visiting you, do you use your RV as a guesthouse?"To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top

BY Mark Polk

Mark's RV Quick Tip #1: EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT-Have an emergency supply kit made up and easily accessible. The kit should contain flashlights, batteries, rain ponchos, a portable weather radio, first aid kit, non-perishable packaged or canned food and a manual can opener, blankets, prescription and non-prescription drugs, pet supplies, bottled water and any special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members.

Mark's RV Quick Tip #2: Water weighs 8.3 pounds per gallon. A forty-gallon fresh water holding tank full of water adds 332 pounds of weight to your RV. Depending on the type and size of RV you have the added weight and the movement of the water, when you�re traveling, can be a concern. You should only take the amount of water that will be required to get to your destination and refill as required. Don�t forget your gray and black tanks too. Try not to travel with full holding tanks if at all possible..

...with Mark
Q. I have reviewed your videos (we bought the 4 DVD set) over the weekend and I cannot find how to determine my exact tongue weight. I thought I saw it on the DVD covering hitches, etc.. Is it on the DVD or did I see it on your website somewhere? Can you tell me how to determine the tongue weight? I'm concerned because 10% of 7500 lb. = 750 lb. and 15% = 1,125 lb. which is a 375 lb. difference and would make a big difference in the hitch I would buy. 7500 lb. is the gross weight rating of our travel trailer. The difference in TW / hitch purchase may be even more important when we load and weigh the trailer.
I appreciate your help.

Mark Says:
I found some Keystone Springdale brochures. The specs for your trailer say that the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is 7,560 pounds. What this represents is the maximum weight the trailers axles and frame can support when it is fully loaded.

The advertised dry weight or unloaded vehicle weight is only 5,460 pounds. So in a sense you could load 2,100 pounds into the trailer before you exceed the GVWR. I doubt that will ever happen.

The dry weight is what the unit weighed when it was shipped from the factory. You would need to add any additional weight that was added to the trailer after you purchased it, or anything the dealer added to it.

The advertised tongue or hitch weight is only 560 pounds. You would need to consider any weight you add to the front of the trailer, like in a front storage compartment or a battery etc. That would increase the tongue weight by that same amount.

You will need a Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) sized one step up from 600 pounds based on this information.

RVing with Mark Polk on Youtube. Over 27free RV Video tips plus product sample clips

Let RV Education 101 help you save money in 2009

RV DVD 6PACK RV Education 101 just made it easier for you to learn about YOUR RV! We took 6 of our individual DVD titles and put them together into a full set for you which is equal to over 5 hours of one on one instruction. You SAVE a significant amount of money with the set discount.

Length: 6 DVDs combined are equal to over 5 hours

sale price: $99.95
Buy Now

16 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

Money Saving DVD Sets Available

Travel Trailer / 5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
Class A Training DVD Sets
Class C Training DVD Sets

14 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

Our goal with RV University This Week is to provide you with helpful information to make all of your RV experiences more enjoyable. I left my position as an RV Sales and F&I manager in 2000 to start my own company, RV Education 101. We produce educational videos, DVDs and e-books on how to use and maintain your RV. The reason I left my job was due to my concern about the lack of educational and safety awareness material available to the RV consumer, in other words, you. We are a small company. My wife Dawn left her position in RV sales to help start the company and is our Sales and Marketing Director. We currently have a 35-foot Class A motor home. We have two boys, Tyler 12 and Josh 18, both avid RVers and two dogs, Gracie and Buck. Gracie is the good one. If you would like to learn more about us and RV Education 101 feel free to visit http://www.rveducation101.com

To contact us with feedback or questions, email to: info@rveducation101.com

To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

To unsubscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/unsubscribe.asp

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

http://www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
150 Bay Ridge Rd
Harrells, NC 28444-8896
910-484-7615